Welcome from the Director
Dear Lions,
Welcome home! Whether you are joining us for the first time or returning for another year, it is an honor to welcome you and your families to East Texas A&M University for the 2025–2026 academic year.
Choosing to live on campus means choosing to be part of something bigger than just a place to stay. Our residence halls are communities where you will learn, grow, and build lasting connections. They are places where you will be supported by dedicated staff and surrounded by fellow Lions who will challenge and inspire you every day.
Our Residential Living and Learning team is dedicated to creating an environment where you feel safe, welcome, and empowered to achieve your goals. We take pride in helping you build meaningful relationships, develop valuable life skills, and create memories that will last long after you leave our communities.
I encourage you to take full advantage of the opportunities that living on campus provides. Get to know your neighbors, connect with your resident assistants and community directors, and do not hesitate to ask for help when you need it. We are here for you.
Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your college journey. I look forward to seeing you around campus and watching all that you accomplish this year.
Welcome home, Lions. Let’s make it a year to remember.
Nicholas Brown, Director of Residential Living & Learning
Move-In At a glance
General Move-In Dates: August 20–21, 2025. Please check your housing portal for your assigned arrival time.
Where to Go
Wednesday, August 20
- All students will check in at the One Stop Shop (look for directional signs)
- Physical Address: 2200 Campbell St., Commerce, TX 75428
- Enter campus via Culver Street to Bois D’Arc Street. Turn right on Cooper Street, then enter through Mayo Street.
- Check in to pick up your room key (if applicable) and other important housing materials.
Thursday, August 21
- Students will check in at their assigned residential community to receive their key and housing materials.
Unloading Zones and Parking (Both Days)
- Follow signs to the unloading zones at your residential community.
- After unloading, please move your vehicle to Lots 18 or 19. A shuttle will run from these lots to the residential areas.
Need Assistance? Our staff and Move-In Team volunteers will be available to help. Look for team members in Move-In Team T-shirts.
Move-In Day Unloading Zones
- Arrive at your assigned time slot to keep traffic flowing.
- Follow directional signage and staff instructions.
- Unload quickly — drivers should stay with vehicles while items are moved in.
- Move your vehicle to long-term parking once unloaded.
- Volunteers will be on hand to help with carts and directions.
10 Tips Before You Arrive
- Check your housing portal for your final move-in details.
- Label all boxes with your name, community, and room number.
- Connect with your roommate(s) ahead of time to coordinate shared items.
- Pack wisely and bring only what you need for now.
- Review the list of prohibited items to avoid last-minute surprises
- If possible, bring your own dolly or cart — we have a limited supply and lines can be long.
- Dress comfortably and stay hydrated — Texas weather in August can be hot.
- Know where to park by familiarizing yourself with unloading and long-term parking areas in advance.
- Have your student ID or mobile credentials ready.
- Bring plenty of patience and a positive attitude — Move-In Day is busy, but it’s the start of something great!
Suggested Packing Lists
Essentials
- Bedding (twin XL sheets, pillow, comforter)
- Towels & toiletries
- Laundry basket & detergent
- Hangers & storage bins
- Basic cleaning supplies
- Extension cords & power strips (surge protected)
- School supplies
- Small fan
- Reusable water bottle
- Important documents
Optional but Helpful
- Small microwave & mini fridge (check size limits)
- Rug or floor mat
- Desk lamp
- Personal decor
- Snacks & reusable dishes
- First aid kit
Prohibited Items
Please do not bring:
- Candles or incense
- Hot plates, toasters, or open coil appliances
- Space heaters
- Halogen lamps
- Weapons of any kind
- Pets (other than approved fish in tanks under 10 gallons)
- Alcohol or illegal substances
- Hoverboards or e-scooters for indoor use
Stay in the know
- Check your student email regularly.
- Follow RLL on social media (Facebook: ETAMU Residential Living and Learning; Instagram: @ETAMURLL)
- Attend floor meetings during Lions Roar.
- Visit the Community Handbook via our website and Roompact
- Bookmark the RLL website for updates.
For Parents and Families
Stay connected and informed throughout your student’s college journey — sign up for CampusESP today!
CampusESP is our official family communication portal, designed to keep you updated on important dates, deadlines, and campus news. Customize your preferences and get the information that matters most to you.
People to Know
- Resident Assistant (RA) — Peer leader for your floor. They plan events, build community, and help you navigate campus life.
- Desk Assistant (DA) -— A friendly face at your hall’s front desk who can help with packages, questions, and general assistance.
- Community Director (CD) — Full-time professional staff member who oversees your residence hall community, safety, and operations.
- Residential Living & Learning (RLL) Staff — Here to help with housing questions, maintenance needs, and support services.
- Campus Police & Emergency Contacts — Save important numbers in your phone and know where to reach help 24/7.
Local Restaurants and Hotels
Restaurants in Commerce (within 1 mile)
- Lion’s Mane Café – Main student dining facility located in Rayburn Student Center
- Nearby chain restaurants — Braum’s, Dairy Queen, Domino’s, Los Mochis (Mexican), McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, Sonic, Subway, Taco Bell, Texas Café Diner, Tokyo Express (Asian), Whataburger
- Other local specialties — Curry Fusion (Indian/Nepalese), Dos Laredos (Mexican), Lone Star Eatery Grill & Bar, Lulu's Burgers, Luigi's (Italian), Sol Azteca (Mexican)
Nearby in Greenville (~15 miles)
Options include Applebee’s, Chili’s, Cracker Barrel, IHOP, and a variety of other chain restaurants.
Hotels and Lodging in Greenville (~15 miles)
- Comfort Suites Greenville – Suite-style rooms, pool, hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi
- Hampton Inn & Suites Greenville – Outdoor pool, complimentary breakfast, free Wi-Fi
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Greenville – Indoor pool, breakfast buffet, business amenities
- Best Western Plus Monica Royale Inn & Suites – Indoor pool, fitness room, free breakfast
- Econo Lodge, Super 8 Motel, La Quinta Inn – Budget-friendly options nearby
Extended Options in Sulphur Springs (~23 miles)
Chain hotels like Days Inn, Hampton Inn, Quality Inn, La Quinta, Best Western, and Clarion Pointe.