CNU juniors to live on campus

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) - A new requirement by Christopher Newport University mandates all juniors live on campus.

"I don't mind it. I'm very involved on campus so it doesn't bother me to be a quick walk away," CNU student Allison Pritchett said.

CNU student Sarah Perrett wants more freedom.

"I don't want to be on campus 20 years old having to go through an RA or have RA checks and live in a dorm. I want to like branch out and live on my own," Perrett said.

CNU Dean of Students Dr. Kevin Hughes told WAVY.com the purpose of the new requirement is to enrich students' experiences on campus.

"We're a residential, liberal arts college," Hughes said. "We want to connect the out of classroom experience and the in-classroom experience, so there's an integrated learning community. It creates a richer, academic experience."

Parent Melissa McCormick told WAVY.com she fully supports the new rule.

"I love the idea," McCormick said. "You send your child off to school you want to know they're participating in the campus activities and that they're safe."

Juniors who are married, serve in the military or have financial constraints can opt out of the on-campus requirement.

WAVY.com checked with Norfolk State University, Virginia Wesleyan College and Old Dominion University and none of them have that rule in effect.