Frequently Asked questions

Where will I live?
Cal Maritime has two residence halls to choose from. Although we allow incoming students the opportunity to request a hall, the upper-class students have first choice of residential spaces. All incoming students are placed in spaces on a first come, first serve basis, while keeping specific needs in mind.

Upper Residence Hall is a traditional style building with long hallways and common bathrooms shared by a wing. It is located at the top of the residential side of campus. Half of the rooms enjoy a view of the Carquinez Strait, while the other half have a hillside view.

Lower Residence Hall is the hall located on the lower part of the residential area. This hall is suite-style with four rooms to a hallway, which share a common bathroom. Within the Lower Residence Hall, there are designated 24-hour quiet buildings. The students in these buildings are placed on a first come, first serve basis and agree to all extra policies governing this area. All rooms in the Lower Residence Hall enjoy a view of the Carquinez Strait.

What regulations govern residence hall life?
The California Maritime Academy student handbook contains a complete list of all rules and regulations, which include compliance with local, state, and federal laws.

Will I have a roommate?
Our facilities only boast seven rooms designated as single rooms. These are given out on a seniority basis. The number of rooms for use as a single after placement is limited. These rooms will also be given out based on seniority. Therefore, all first year students should plan on having a roommate.

How and when will I receive my housing assignment?
Housing assignments are made approximately one month before the start of school. At this time, the Housing and Residential Life Staff will contact (either by phone or mail) all incoming students of their assignment, roommate, and check in appointment.

Is it easy to meet other students when you live in a residence hall?
Living on campus is by far the easiest, most convenient way to get acquainted. Many free or inexpensive programs and events—sponsored by the residential life staff—will help you get acquainted, become involved and have a great time.

What furnishings come with the rooms?
Every room comes furnished with a bed, desk, desk chair, wardrobe/closet, and dresser per occupant. Although a student is welcome to bring additional furniture, all issued furniture must stay in the room. Any furniture you choose to bring should be considered with the limited space in mind.

When do I check in and check out?
Check in is the weekend before classes begin. Check out is always two hours after finals at the end of semesters. All halls are closed for winter break. Housing is not provided during these periods.

Do I have to move out at semester break?
Your license does not cover this period, but you can leave your belongings in your room during this time. If you plan to stay during this period, you will be required to sign an additional license and pay a nominal fee.

How can I personalize my room?
Students are encouraged to personalize their rooms within reasonable guidelines set by the Housing and Residential Life Office. Rooms can be personalized with posters and other wall coverings using sticky tack or masking tape. Carpet and curtains with tension rods may also be added to rooms for personalization. Students should check with the Resident Director regarding standards before proceeding. Students are not allowed to paint their rooms.

Why do you say “residence hall” and not “dormitory”?
The term “dorm” or “dormitory” is a throwback to the 1940s, ‘50s and early ‘60s when 18-year-olds were not legal adults and facilities looked and were operated rather like barracks. On-campus housing has gone through a tremendous period of development since then. Today, residents live, study, interact, and grow through a wide range of social and educational programs. So the term “residence hall” truly reflects on-campus housing in the present times.

May I have visitors?
Invited guests may visit in your room at times mutually acceptable to you and your roommate. Guests may stay overnight in student rooms (not to exceed 3 days) if the host resident’s roommate gives permission. Residents are responsible for the behavior of their guests. However, visitors are not allowed during semester break.

What appliances are allowed in residence hall rooms?
Items that are not allowed in students’ rooms include, but are not limited to, air conditioners, space heaters, hot plates, immersion heaters, and open-coil toasters. In general, any appliance that has an exposed heating surface or draws a large amount of energy is not permitted. Use of all other appliances; popcorn poppers, hot pots, curling irons, coffee pots, etc. must be in a safe manner so as not to cause a health or fire hazard. Refrigerators that do not exceed 2.5 cu. Feet capacity or do not use more than 2.5 amps may be used in residence hall rooms. Halogen lamps are prohibited from the residence halls as well.

What should I bring?
A “what to bring” list is included later in this document. Freshman students will be provided with their roommate’s name and are encouraged to communicate with one another about items that each roommate will contribute to the living environment. This will eliminate duplication of large items that may take up an excess of space (stereos, televisions, refrigerators, etc.).

Are laundry facilities available in the residence halls?
Debit card operated washers and dryers are available in both Upper and Lower Residence Halls.

Can I access the Internet from my room?
Direct data ports are available in each student room. The campus supports personal computers on the network. We require an Ethernet adapter to connect to the network. Modems cannot be used to access the computer network. All students who choose to utilize the campus network or email are required to sign a computer usage agreement.

Are there phones in the room?
All student rooms in both Upper and Lower Residence Halls have phone jacks wired for personal telephones. Students are responsible for providing their own telephones. Phone service is available through the campus and may be arranged upon your arrival.

Is there cable television?
Expanded basic television cable service is provided for each student room. Premium cable may be purchased via the local cable provider.