January 27, 2026

April Jenkins, MSM Assistant Dean and Director of Residence Life oversees residence life for hundreds of MSM students and Resident Assistants (RAs) and Graduate Assistants. She shares with us what she’s looking forward to this year for herself and for MSM students, and tells us a bit about what will be taking place in MSM Residence Life this semester.  

What are your goals for MSM Residence Life for 2026?

My goal for MSM Residence Life is to continue building a community where students feel at home, supported, represented, and connected. Andersen Hall is about more than a place to sleep. Residence Life focuses on creating an environment where students can grow as individuals while learning how to live and thrive in community with others.

This past fall, Residence Life hosted 76 community events. Since introducing our residential curriculum in 2023, we have seen increased student engagement within the hall. In 2026, we plan to remain intentional in designing opportunities for residents to engage on campus, offering a wide range of programs from quiet, calming experiences to high-energy community building events. Through intentional programming and leadership opportunities, we aim to help students discover more about themselves, build meaningful relationships, and find a sense of belonging outside of the classroom.

What is unique about dorm life at Andersen Hall?

Andersen Hall is a truly special place because it is home to more than 500 musicians who share a common passion for music. Living alongside fellow artists creates a sense of understanding and camaraderie that is hard to replicate elsewhere. Students have access to multiple practice spaces within the building, including 24-hour practice rooms on the 2nd floor and in the cellar, that are exclusively open to residents after hours. This allows our residents to follow inspiration whenever it strikes, whether that’s early in the morning or late at night. Andersen Hall also boasts some of the best views in the neighborhood, including views of the Hudson River and Grant’s Memorial. When students want a break from practicing, they can catch a beautiful view of the sunset on our sixth-floor terrace.

Another unique aspect of Andersen Hall is the opportunity for students to have a real voice in shaping their residential experience. Through the Andersen Resident Council (ARC), which we created this Fall, students can share ideas, plan events, and contribute to decisions that impact the community. This year the ARC was successful in advocating for improvements to the Andersen Hall Gym. We also have a large graduate student population, which is uncommon in traditional residence halls, and we design experiences with that in mind. This fall we hosted a 21+ speakeasy event that allowed our graduate students and 21+ residents to connect over wine, dinner, and live music.

What can students expect living in Andersen Hall?

Students living in Andersen Hall can expect a hall staff that genuinely cares about their success and well-being. Our Residence Life team is available 24/7, with professional staff in the office during the day and RAs and GAs on-duty available after hours for emergencies or additional support. We are also intentional about creating inclusive experiences that reflect the diversity of our community. Andersen Hall is home to students from 37 different countries and many cultural backgrounds, and our programming aims to celebrate identity, culture, and connection.

Can you tell us how you came to work in MSM Residence Life?

My journey in Residence Life began as an undergraduate student at the College of New Jersey, where I worked as a student manager in residential operations and later served as a Resident Assistant for international students. Through those roles, I discovered how I could combine my skills, passions, and care for others to positively impact a community. After graduation, I worked at Syracuse University as an Assistant Residence Hall Director before pursuing my master’s degree in Higher and Postsecondary Education at Teachers College, Columbia University.

During graduate school, I gained hands on experience at institutions, including Columbia University and here at MSM, where I worked in Student Engagement as a Graduate Assistant, and advised student organizations including the Black Student Union and the Student Council (now known as the SGA). I continued my professional journey at Union College and Seton Hall University, serving in various residence life roles and advancing into leadership positions. In 2022, I returned to Manhattan School of Music as Director of Residence Life, and in July 2025, I was promoted to Assistant Dean and Director of Residence Life.

What do you like best about your job?

What I love most about my job is creating moments of connection and joy for students, especially during what can often be long and demanding days filled with rehearsals, classes, and performances. Sometimes it’s the simple moments, like hosting a charm bracelet-making event where students can relax, be creative, and connect with one another. I enjoy opportunities to collaborate with members of my team. It’s also rewarding to get to watch students discover their voice, step into leadership roles, and realize the impact they can have on their community

Can you tell us about any upcoming student activities or event highlights?

Residence Life has an exciting lineup of events planned for the spring semester. Students can look forward to activities such as a Super Bowl Watch Party, a Valentine’s Dinner with live music, a Lunar New Year celebration, Black History Month Game Night,  a bouquet-making station, a 21+ Wine and Chocolate Night, Drag Bingo with a live performer, and a professional headshot event to name a few.

Follow us on Instagram @msm_studentaffairs to stay caught up with upcoming events and event highlights.

Questions about MSM Residence Life?

residencelife@msmnyc.edu.