CCI Commons

Imagine living in the same residence hall with students in your Oral Discourse or Mass Comm Intro class.  Two years ago, 64 students did just that and joined CCI Commons, the theme community started by the College of Communication and Information. This year, more than 100 students, including 80 freshmen, are participating in the community in Verder Hall. CCI Dean Jim Gaudino believes the Commons will give students a more rewarding and diverse college experience. The Collaborative Online Producing class of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication has put together a package of stories, interviews and multimedia about CCI Commons. Click on the photo to read the articles, watch video projects on the Commons or view an interactive map.

The CCI Commons is an on-campus residential college open to all majors and pre-majors within the College of Communication and Information at Kent State University.  This unique learning community is academically-based and designed to provide students with the tools and support necessary to become successful in their college and professional careers.

The CCI Commons is the central hub for activities and information related to the College of Communication and Information. Students will live with others who are studying the same major or similar fields of interest. This close proximity to others in the college will allow for an open exchange of ideas and experiences that go beyond the classroom.  Weekly programs will offer students a peek into various career possibilities and current practices in the broad field of communications. The CCI Commons is structured to offer support to our students throughout their college experience at Kent State University.

While each student’s experience within the CCI Commons will be unique, below are some of the ways students can benefit academically, professionally, and socially.

Academic Benefits

• Connections with other students who share academic and professional interests.
• Residence hall location close to the college advising office and classrooms for major courses.
• Academic advising within the residence hall.
• Visits to businesses and studios.
• Study sessions and academic advice for core classes.
• Mentor Groups made up of students of varying class rank with a faculty mentor.
• Information about the CCI posted within the residence hall.
• Opportunities to work on collaborative projects with fellow students and faculty.
• Computer lab and studio space available 24/7 in the residence hall.
• A program coordinator within the residence hall who will plan programs and assist students with questions regarding the CCI.
• Programs designed to benefit students from their freshman year through graduation.

Professional Benefits

• Career advising opportunities within the residence hall.
• Weekly programs, including guest speakers and movie nights, geared to particular fields of study.
• Computer software training and workshops to develop new skills and to stay competitive.
• Professional contacts for future internships or job possibilities.
• Opportunities to build life-long friendships and professional bonds.

Social Benefits

• Contests and social events.
• A student governing body which plans programming and other activities.
• Collaborative programs with student organizations.
• A listserv to receive daily news about the CCI Commons and to stay connected to fellow students.

Contact Information:   If you are interested in becoming a part of the CCI Commons, or would like more information, contact Marianne Warzinski at 330-672-4467, or e-mail mrwarzin@kent.edu.