BRIDGES HOUSING HANDBOOK

POLICIES - PROCEDURES - PROTOCOLS - GUIDANCE

REVIEWING THIS HANDBOOK IN ITS ENTIRETY IS MANDATORY

If you are coming to the U.S. for the first time and are accustomed to a collectivist culture, you may feel pressure to adapt to the cultural expectations of the individualist culture in the U.S., leading you to avoid asking for help. While you are in a new environment and may only be comfortable seeking support from family and friends, we want to assure you that we are here to help. You are not alone.

Having a solid support system is a crucial aspect of studying abroad. Relocating to a new area, away from home, family, and friends, can be challenging. However, it is also an opportunity to experience an exciting adventure that will create new connections and lasting memories. ACEE is here to provide you with support and guidance during your stay in Baltimore, helping you become more independent so you can enjoy the memorable experience you deserve.

Reasons to contact ACEE:

• Need advice about Baltimore (entertainment, shopping, etc.)

• Experiencing a difficult time adjusting to the area and needing advice or guidance

• Having a problem with another student or your roommate

• Having difficulty in school

• You do not feel safe

• You feel isolated and alone

• You are sad, miss home, and/or need encouragement. There are former ITGL students on our team who can help you by discussing their experiences and coping strategies

• You have questions about any of the features in your apartment or the housing building

• You are experiencing hardships affecting your ability to live/survive in Baltimore (i.e., financial, emotional, social, etc.)

DO NOT SUFFER IN SILENCE!

You are not on this journey alone. With the support of the University and ACEE, you can make this the experience of a lifetime. Your communications are always discreet and confidential.

This guide is designed to help you navigate every aspect of your housing experience with confidence. Each section covers important topics you need to know—from building procedures and safety tips to maintenance requests and community expectations. Click through each section below to review the details and make sure you're fully prepared for a smooth and successful stay.

ADDITIONAL HOUSING RULES AND REGULATIONS

General Conduct

1. Respectful Behavior: Students must maintain respectful conduct toward roommates, neighbors, and property staff.

2. Noise Control: Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 8 AM to ensure a conducive environment for studying and rest.

Apartment Care

1. Cleanliness: Students are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and orderliness of their apartments. Regular inspections may be conducted to ensure hygiene standards are met.

2. Damage: Any damage to the apartment or its furnishings must be reported immediately. Students are financially responsible for repairs resulting from misuse or negligence.

3. Furniture: ACEE-provided furniture must not be removed from the apartment. Personal furniture may be added with approval, provided it does not cause damage to the unit.

Safety and Security

1. Security: Students should ensure that doors and windows are locked when leaving the apartment. Sharing keys or access codes with unauthorized individuals is prohibited.

2. Fire Safety: Tampering with fire alarms, extinguishers, or other safety equipment is strictly prohibited. Candles, open flames, and space heaters are not allowed in the apartments.

3. Visitors: Overnight guests are permitted with prior approval and must be registered with the housing office. Students are responsible for the behavior of their guests.

4. No Smoking: A strict no-smoking policy applies to all indoor common areas and within the apartments. This includes cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and any other smoking-related products. If you are found to violate this policy, cleaners will be scheduled to come in immediately to clean all ACEE items, the walls, and the carpet. You will then be charged a $500.00 cleaning fee each time you are found in violation. Multiple violations will result in termination of the contract.

Use of Facilities

1. Utilities: Utilities provided by ACEE should be used responsibly. Misuse or waste of utilities may result in additional charges.

2. Common Areas: If applicable, students should maintain cleanliness in common areas and follow the specific rules regarding the use of shared spaces.

Alcohol and Drug Policy

1. Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is permitted only for students who are of legal drinking age and must be done per local laws.

2. Drugs: The possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs is strictly prohibited and may result in eviction and disciplinary action.

Service Agreement

1. Agreement Terms: Students must adhere to the terms outlined in their service agreement, including compliance with move-in and move-out dates and all housing rules.

2. Subletting: Subletting the apartment is not permitted under any circumstances.

Disciplinary Actions

1. Violations: Depending on the severity of the offense, violations of housing rules may result in warnings, fines, or termination of the contract and eviction.

Internet and Technology Use

1. Internet Use: Students are expected to use the internet service provided by ACEE responsibly. Illegal downloading, excessive bandwidth use, and any activities that violate local laws or ACEE policies are prohibited.

2. Technical Equipment: ACEE may provide specific technical equipment (like routers, printers, or televisions) for use in the apartments. This equipment must be used properly and returned in good condition at the end of the service period.

Environmental Responsibility

1. Energy Conservation: Students are encouraged to conserve energy by turning off lights, electronics, and heating or cooling systems when not in use.

2. Recycling and Waste Management: Students should follow the designated procedures for recycling and waste disposal. Improper disposal of waste, including hazardous materials, is prohibited.

Pets

1. Pets: Pets are not allowed in the apartments unless explicitly permitted by ACEE. In cases where pets are allowed, students must ensure they are properly cared for and do not cause disturbances or damage.

Parking and Vehicle Use

1. Parking: If parking is provided, students must park in designated areas and adhere to all parking regulations. Unauthorized vehicles may be towed at the owner’s expense.

2. Bicycles: Bicycles should be stored in designated areas and should not block walkways or entrances.

Community Involvement

1. Participation in Community Activities: Students are encouraged to participate in community activities and meetings organized by ACEE to foster a supportive living environment.

Maintenance Requests

1. Maintenance Requests: All maintenance issues should be reported promptly to ACEE. Students should not attempt to repair any damage or malfunctions themselves unless instructed to do so by ACEE.

These rules are designed to create a safe, respectful, and productive living environment for all students.

Handbook Acknowledgment Verification and Agreement

I, the undersigned, acknowledge that I have received, read, and understood the BRIDGES Housing Handbook provided to me. I agree to abide by these rules, regulations, and procedures during my occupancy in the ACEE-provided apartment. I understand that any violations of these rules, regulations, and procedures may result in disciplinary actions, including fines, contract termination, or other consequences as determined by ACEE.

I further understand that the apartment I occupy belongs to ACEE, and I am responsible for maintaining it in accordance with the guidelines set forth. I agree to report any damages, maintenance issues, or other concerns to ACEE in a timely manner.

By entering my information and clicking “I agree” below, I confirm my agreement to comply with all the terms and conditions outlined in the BRIDGES Housing Handbook.