Transgender Residential Experience (T-REx)

The Transgender Residential Experience (T-REx) is a dedicated living space designed for trans, nonbinary, and gender diverse students who are looking for an inclusive environment where additional resources, education, and weekly programming will occur. T-REx programming and education is directed by a curriculum that focuses on developing the whole student and highlighting their experiences as trans and gender non-conforming people.  

Residents in T-REx will have direct support from full-time staff in the Gender and Sexuality Campus Center, a trained Resident Assistant (RA) and an Intercultural Aid (ICA). T-REx residents will also have access to gender affirming clothing garments provided by Health Promotion, Engagement, Accessibility and Accommodations. To find out more about these garments, please contact Jozzy Rivera at rivera77@msu.edu or Em Wolfe at wolfeem2@msu.edu.  

This living community will focus on cultivating community healing, community building, cultural competency, personal development, and visibility. Residents can expect to grow in these areas through weekly programming that highlights artistic expression, laughter, personal and communal growth, academic success, and educational development.  

For questions about T-REx, please contact the Coordinator of Transgender Student Support, Em Wolfe (they/them) at wolfeem2@msu.edu. 

The mission

The Transgender Residential Experience provides a community which centers the experiences, needs, perspectives, and joy of transgender and gender non-conforming communities, while creating experiences that foster healing, community building, and intercultural exploration. 

Frequently asked questions

Who can join T-REx? 

T-REx is open to students who are seeking an environment where trans and gender non-conforming students are centered and celebrated. Any student who is eligible to live on campus may apply to live in T-REx.  

 

Where is T-REx located? 

T-REx is currently located in South Neighborhood. 

 

How can I apply to live in T-REx? 

You can apply through your MyHousing portal. If you are having trouble applying through your portal, please contact Em Wolfe at wolfeem2@msu.edu. 

 

What are some examples of programs offered? 

Painting and planting pots while setting personal and community goals, study nights, game nights, participating in circles (style of communication and processing that comes from Black and Indigenous practices), spoken word, craft nights, and educational opportunities in partnership with the Center for Gender in Global Context (GenCen).  

 

Are there participant expectations for people living in the T-REx community? 

Nope! Although we would love for students to participate in all our programming, there is no requirement to attend meetings or events specific to T-REx.  

 

What is the living style of the community? 

T-REx is currently in a suite style community where there are 2 residents assigned to a room and they share a bathroom with another room of 2 residents. Residents are expected to clean their own bathrooms and rooms. For more information, please see the South Community on the REHS website.  

 

Can I attend T-REx programs even if I’m not living in the community? 

Yes! All transgender and gender non-conforming students and allies are invited to participate in T-REx programming. You can reach out to Em Wolfe at wolfeem2@msu.edu for event details.  

 

Are there additional safety measures put in place for this community? 

For student safety, the specific location of this community will not be promoted online. If you have concerns about safety, please contact Em Wolfe at wolfeem2@msu.edu.