Special interest sections are the heart and soul of Demarest, and ostensibly the reasons students live there. Sections rise, fall, and evolve, reflecting the interests of the residents. Two worthy sections which have disappeared only since 1991 are Eastern European Languages and Psychology/Meditation; however, the Hebrew section and the Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual Studies section have been formed since that same year. The Classical Music section became Music Appreciation, and there was word that current residents may form a Film Appreciation section.

Demarest sections are loosely categorized as Fine Arts (basement and first floor), Humanities (second floor), or Languages (third floor). Creative Writing is the only section split between two floors because nobody could decide if writing was more a fine art or a humanity. (Oddly enough, this year, the Creative Writing section leader lives on the first floor, while the Visual Arts section leader lives on the second floor. What's up with that?) Sections used to be segregated into contiguous blocks of rooms; section members could only room with someone in their own section. This rule was dismantled in 1990, and most Demarites may now room with anyone on their own floor. The exceptions are members of language sections, who are required by the Demarest Contract to speak their respective foreign languages as often as possible and so must room with members of their own sections.

To become a Demarest resident, you must submit to the application process. For incoming freshmen, this means following the instructions in your Rutgers Housing literature. For current Rutgers students, it means going to Bishop House and filling out a few forms. In both cases, it means possibly being asked to submit a portfolio of your work (if you are applying to the Creative Writing or Visual Arts sections), auditioning (for the Performing Arts section), or otherwise proving your interest and proficiency. Section leaders have also been known to conduct interviews of new applicants.

Section members are observed and evaluated by their section leaders. They are judged on the following criteria:

• regular, punctual attendance of section meetings
• individual program quality
• participation in discussions and group projects or outings
• cooperation with the section leader

A section member who receives a poor evaluation may be put on section probation; continuing poor performance may result in loss of Demarest residence. To ensure one's return to Demarest, it is not enough merely to fulfill the requirements of the Demarest Contract. You should be contributing enthusiastically and positively to both your section and Demarest in general. While section leaders are evaluating their section members, members also have the opportunity to evaluate their leaders.

Each section is required to reapply each academic year. This process begins in November, when each section will reassert its goals and criteria. Demarites wishing to start a new section may also submit applications at this time. Individuals who want to return to Demarest must also reapply every year, early in the Spring semester.

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