Frequently Asked Questions

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Is Orientation really required?
YES. All week and weekend.

Where can we stay?
The following motels are within three miles of campus, just off I-40 at Exit 55. Ask for the Warren Wilson rate.

Days Inn ..........828-298-4000
Holiday Inn ..... 828-298-5611
Quality Inn.... ...828-298-5519
Motel 6 ........... 828-299-3040

Can someone pick me up at the bus station or the ASHEVILLE airport?
We’d be glad to pick you up Sunday afternoon or evening or Monday morning. Call 828-771-3025 BEFORE AUGUST 7th with your time of arrival and flight #. The other options are a cab (approx. $15-20 from the bus station) or from the airport ($40-50). Unfortunately there are no convenient/reasonably priced options for public transportation from Charlotte or the Greenville airport and/or train station.

Can I bring my car to campus?
A number of years ago our community made a decision to limit pavement on our beautiful campus and implemented a policy that prohibited first year students from parking cars on campus. Many other WWC students also choose not to have a vehicle.

There are many other options for transportation available:

Student Services provides transportation in emergencies and to and from the airport and bus station at the beginning and end of vacations.
The Health Center provides transportation for a limited number of scheduled medical appointments (including dentists, physical therapy and counseling).
There is a “ride-offered/ride wanted” bulletin board in the student center.
An Asheville city bus is your free ride into town—all you have to do is show your Warren Wilson College ID to the driver. The bus runs Monday through Thursday 5-9 p.m., Friday 5 p.m - 1 a.m., and Saturday 1 p.m.-1 a.m. The bus stop on campus is located in front of the library. Route information and schedules are available in the Work Program Office and in the Student Life office in Dodge House.
The Service Learning Program provides transportation for several ongoing projects in the Asheville and Black Mountain areas.
The Outdoor Program uses college vans for weekend camping, climbing, hiking, and paddling trips.

Returning and transfer students are permitted to keep one car, truck, or motorcycle on campus by paying a $50 parking fee. The official motor vehicle registration card and proof of insurance must be presented to get a permit. Payment of the fee does not guarantee a parking space; it gives permission to park in designated areas. A full explanation of campus parking regulations is included in the Student Handbook.

What about managing money?
There’s no simple answer to this question. A few people seem to have unlimited allowances, while others manage on almost nothing.

We strongly advise new students against working off-campus during the academic year. Classes plus 15 hours in the work program and the service requirement is a full load.
Students who need or wish to stay on campus over breaks may apply for a break work contract during vacation. The college pays slightly above minimum wage during these times and charges a subsidized rate for room and board. The Work Program Office publicizes the dates for sign-up.
There is an ATM machine on campus operated by BB&T bank. A $2.00 transaction fee is charged for non BB&T customers. Other ATMs are available at many of the bus stops.
Asheville is a tourist town. Most businesses accept out-of-state checks, but a local bank account can be helpful. Many provide student account specials.
WWC Bookstore accepts checks and credit cards (in your own name) and will cash checks up to $50.
Texts cost more than you would expect. Count on spending $200 to $300 a semester. Science books are particularly expensive.
A load of laundry costs $1 or $1.25 to wash and $1 to dry.
Almost all campus events (movies, dances, concerts, athletic events, coffee houses, plays) are free.
Asheville has the usual mall stores, chain stores, many boutiques, and secondhand stores.

What about Health Insurance?
We encourage all students to have at least basic health insurance coverage. If you are not covered by a parent’s policy we offer a plan through First Agency (1stagency.com) and a brochure is included in this mailing.

Any student interested in participating in collegiate athletics (basketball, soccer, swimming, cross country, cycling and paddling) needs to have health insurance. Proof of primary insurance coverage is mandatory for all student-athletes. If you do not have primary insurance, the Athletic Department offers an insurance policy through First Agency of Michigan. This health insurance policy covers injuries related to WWC athletics. If you have questions, please call Stacey Enos, Athletic Director, at 828-771-3737 or senos@warren-wilson.edu.

How much stuff do most students bring with them?
The College ethos is to underplay possessions and to live simply. Residence Hall rooms are SMALL, shared spaces. For health and safety reasons, the following are not allowed in residence halls -- air conditioners, candles, incense, oil lamps, open coil appliances or space heaters. Only heavy duty extension cords and refrigerators (5 cubic foot maximum) are allowed. Limited storage space is available, but it’s not feasible to simply transfer everything you own from home to your dorm room. Fish and small caged animals are permitted with a written contract. Arrangements must be made in advance through the Housing Office 828-771-2071. Dogs, cats, ferrets, rabbits and birds are not permitted.

How safe is campus?
While “crimes against people” such as robbery or assault by strangers have not been an issue, we’ve had “missing” bicycles, money and CDs from unlocked rooms. We ask you to lock your door, keep the entrance code number to yourself, and report suspicious behavior to Public Safety. (Check to see if your belongings are covered by your parent’s insurance; the College is not responsible for theft of or damage to your property.)

There’s time during Orientation to meet the public safety staff, find the location of the emergency blue light phones, and learn about the WWC Sexual Misconduct Policy and the college’s expectations for sexual communication, responsibility and respect.

What about WWC Wellness?
Developing a balanced, healthy lifestyle is an important part of your education at Warren Wilson. The College’s Wellness Program is dedicated to providing you with tools and resources that promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. The Wellness work crew coordinates a variety of non-credit courses, such as yoga, Pilates, NIA and workshops in herbal remedies, massage, and meditation. Many of these activities are chosen largely by the request and interest of the campus community. If you have an idea for a program, stop by the Wellness office in upstairs Bryson Gym.

The Wellness Residence Hall (Ballfield 3) houses students who wish to live with others who share a commitment to an alcohol/tobacco/and other drugs free environment. If this interests you and you haven’t already said so on your Housing form, call the Housing Office (828-771-2071) ASAP

What about alcohol and other drugs?
Warren Wilson is committed to a healthy, safe and legal campus. Our focus is on education and prevention. The College offers professional drug and alcohol screening, counseling, educational programs, and many alternative activities to drinking and illegal drug use.

Smoking is not allowed anywhere indoors, in campus vehicles, on porches, decks or within 25 feet of buildings. On the main campus smoking is permitted only in designated areas.
The drinking age in North Carolina is 21. If you are under the age of 21 you may not consume or possess alcohol anywhere on campus. Alcohol is not allowed in the public areas of residences or elsewhere on campus except at approved events for people of legal age.
Illegal drugs are not allowed anywhere, at anytime, for any reason.

A progressive system of sanctions is used when the College’s Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Policy is violated. Housing suspension, disciplinary probation and suspension are the consequences for serious violations of the law or college policy.

What about immunization records?
North Carolina law requires that all students prove they have received certain immunizations. You cannot register for classes if you’re not in compliance. If you have not already returned the Health form sent to you by the Admission Office, please do so NOW. Be sure it’s complete: the day, month, and year of each immunization must be noted.

What if I’m on medication or need to see a therapist?
If you take medicine for a chronic or recurring condition (e.g. depression, diabetes, seizures, etc.), arrange to have your current prescriptions with you when you arrive. If you need a local doctor or therapist, the College’s nurse practioner or a counselor can make a referral. If you want to arrange things before school starts (but after Aug 1), leave a message at the Health Center (828-771-2053) or the Counseling Center (828-771-3773). If you will be seeing an off-campus health professional on a regular basis (more than 8 times a semester) and would like to have a car on campus to facilitate transportation to the appointments, contact the Dean of Students office to discuss the possibility of an exception to the First Year Student Vehicle Policy.

What about accommodations for special needs?
Students requesting accommodations and/or support service under the Americans with Disabilities Act and/or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 must provide documentation of the existence of a disability which substantially limits a major life activity. Check on-line at www.warren-wilson.edu/accommodations/ for documentation requirements or contact the Educational Access Coordinator, Deborah Braden, dbraden@warren-wilson.edu. If you’re going to need books on tape, let us know now!

How can my parents or friends locate me in an emergency?
If you don’t answer your phone, they can call the main college number (828-298-3325). After hours the Public Safety emergency number is 828-230-4592.

When Am I going to Get More Information?
Mid-July you’ll learn your room assignment and phone number; and your roommate’s name, address, and phone number. Housing assignments are based on the Housing Form you submitted on-line.

In late July you will receive your First Year Seminar assignment and your e-mail address.

Bills: All charges [tuition, fees, room & board] are due by July 1.

More questions?
Available on-line:
Student Handbook: warren-wilson.edu/~handbook/ (The 2007-08 version will be available in August.)
College Catalog: warren-wilson.edu/catalog/