Move-In Day Timeline
1. Arrive at Wright Center Lobby
- Upon arrival to campus, proceed directly to the Wright Center Lobby to the centralized check-in location.
- Only the student should enter the Wright Center Lobby to complete the check-in process (family members should remain in the car).
- Student will provide their name and photo ID (i.e., Samford ID or Driver’s License) to Residence Life staff.
- Residence Life staff will check student in online and issue the student his/her residence hall room key and color-coded unloading zone instructions.
2. Unload Belongings at Assigned Unloading Zone
- After checking in, student and families will follow color-coded instructions to assigned unloading zone.
- When you arrive at assigned unloading zone, you will unload all items from vehicle(s) immediately to assigned drop-off spot.
3. Move Vehicle(s) From Unloading Zone To Parking Area
- Once vehicle(s) has been unloaded, they should be moved from unloading zone to a designated parking area.
- Student and/or family members may wait with belongings at the assigned drop-off spot while vehicle(s) is being moved.
4. Move Belongings Into Room
- Once vehicle(s) has been parked, return to drop-off spot and move belongings into residence hall room.
5. Unpack And Decorate Room
- Once all belongings have been moved from drop-off spot, begin unpacking and decorating your room!
- Those assisting students moving in will need to depart campus by 8:00 p.m. CST on the student’s scheduled move-in day.
Additional Tips For A Successful Move-In Experience
- If possible, please do not bring a box truck and/or trailer as unloading and parking these vehicles is difficult in the designated unloading zones.
- Label all belongings with student name, building and room number.
- Pack light and only bring essential items - remember there will not be volunteers to assist with moving items into the residence hall room.
- Make sure boxes you pack are light and easy for you to carry.
- You may bring equipment (hand trucks, wagons, etc.) to assist you with move-in. However, residence halls do not have elevators.
What’s Next After Move-In?
Look out for a message from your RA
Each student is assigned a Resident Assistant (RA)—a student leader who’s here to support you as you transition into college life. Be on the lookout for a message from your RA about your first hall meeting.
This meeting is an important part of your move-in experience. You’ll learn what to expect while living in your residence hall, get answers to any questions you may have, connect with fellow residents and hear helpful information about life at Samford.
Explore Samford and Birmingham
Explore Samford
- Grab a bite at the University Center
- Get active at the Recreation Center
- Relax or study at Ben Brown Plaza
- Visit Reid Chapel and Hodges Chapel
- Tour the College of Health Sciences
- Drop into classrooms and learning spaces across campus
Explore Birmingham
- Shop local in downtown Homewood or Mountain Brook
- Stroll through the Birmingham Botanical Gardens
- Pick up essentials at Target (Brookwood Village)
- Dine out at favorite local spots like Soho Social, Taco Mama, Brick & Tin or Dave’s Pizza
- Take a walk-through Jemison Park
Connections Weekend
We are so excited to welcome you to Samford! To help you get settled and start building your community, we host Connections Weekend—a special event designed to help you learn more about campus, adjust to college life and make lasting connections before classes begin.
Weekend Highlights
- Popsicles at the President’s House
- A neon dance party
- Excursions to explore Birmingham
It’s a weekend full of fun, friendship and unforgettable moments!
Spaces Near My Residence Hall
Ben Brown Plaza
The Ben Brown Plaza, located between the University Center and the Library, is the primary gathering place for students. The plaza is also home to many different events throughout the year.
Brewer Plaza
The Martha F. and Albert P. Brewer Plaza is located in front of Robinson Hall and is named in honor of the former Alabama governor and his late wife for their contributions to Alabama. The plaza serves as a gathering place and study area for many students, as well as a venue for outdoor events.
Food Court
The food court, located on the first floor of Beeson University Center, is home to Boar's Head Deli, Chick-fil-A, Hissho Sushi, Moe's Southwest Grill, O'Henry's coffee, the Samford Grill and Simply to Go. Additional options include Einstein's in the University Library, Freshens in the College of Health Sciences building and a smoothie bar in the Hanna Center.
Hodges Chapel
Andrew Gerow Hodges Chapel was consecrated as a place of worship in 1995 and later named after Andrew Gerow Hodges, a close friend to benefactor Ralph Beeson. The ornate interior pays tribute to Christian martyrs and depicts 16 key figures in the development of Protestantism and the Baptist faith.
Recreation, Wellness & Athletics Center
These world-class facilities provide students and employees with expanded opportunities too improve physical fitness and mental wellness as well as new spaces for recreation, events and community gatherings. The complex also provides new practice and training spaces for the university’s highly successful Division 1 athletic teams.
Reid Chapel
A. Hamilton Reid Chapel is one of the most well-known buildings on campus. Completed in 1960 and named for a former vice president of Howard College, Reid Chapel is the site of many convocations and concerts, and a favorite venue for alumni weddings.University Center
Ralph W. Beeson University Center is the center of student life. It is home to the HUB information center, bookstore, post office, Career Development Center, student life offices, Caf, food court and student lounges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in the rooms?
- Blinds
- Chairs
- Chest
- Personal computer portal (for each student)
- Twin-sized beds
- Wireless internet
What should I discuss with my roommate about items we may want in our Residence Hall?
- Carpet/area rugs
- Coffee maker
- Drying rack
- Ironing board
- Small microwave
- Small refrigerator
- Sound system
- Television
- Trash can
- Vacuum cleaner/carpet sweeper/broom
- Video gaming equipment
- Window treatments
What to bring?
- Alarm clock
- Backpack
- Bath supplies
- Cleaning supplies (students are responsible for clearing their own rooms/private suite bathrooms.)
- Comforter and/or blanket, pillow and sleep mask.
- Computer
- Detergent
- Ears plugs
- Enough luggage for a weekend trip
- First-aid supplies
- Flashlight
- Flip-flops
- Headphones
- Laundry basket
- Limited number of pictures
- Paper towels/napkins
- Plates, cups, utensils, and zip-top bags
- Power strips (extension cords are discouraged and must be 14 AWG or less if used.)
- Regular twin sheets (XL sheets if bringing a mattress ad.)
- Seasonal clothes/shoes and hangers)
- Shower caddy (for community baths)
- Snacks
- Study board
- Towels
- White Plasti-tak and 3M Command adhesive products
What not to bring?
- Air-fryer/regular fryer
- Air-soft guns
- Alcoholic beverage containers
- Candles/candle warmers
- Charcoal grills
- Halogen lamps
- Hover boards
- Instant pots
- Out of season clothes/shoes (unless you will not return home all year)
Can I tour my residence hall during summer?
We do not offer personalized tours of residence hall rooms during the summer months. However, you’re welcome to explore our campus through guided tours and virtual resources available online.
Where can I do my laundry?
Each residence hall is equipped with complimentary washers and dryers for student use. No need to worry about coins or cards—just bring your laundry and detergent, and you're good to go! Laundry facilities are conveniently located and accessible to all residents.
Central Housing Living
- Gaston Residence Hall
- Mann Residence Hall
- Pittman Residence Hall
- Smith Residence Hall
- Vail Residence Hall
- Ben Brown Plaza
- Davis Library
- Campus Recreation, Wellness and Athletics Complex
- University Center (The Caf)