Although we have only completed one week of the Spring Semester, it is already time to start thinking about housing for next year. One of the most popular options for upperclassman housing is living in one the the Residential Colleges. As you begin to consider where you want to live next year, here are the MCL Top 5 things you should know about the Residential Colleges.
1. The Experience
One of the largest draws to the Residential Colleges is that they offer a unique experience. This includes hosting larger house events and having a faculty head of house. If this sounds familiar, it should. All ten Commons Houses are Residential Colleges (although they function a bit different than the others due to them being Freshmen-centric). Consider how much you have appreciated your Commons experience. If you loved your Commons’ house events and enjoyed getting to know your faculty head, spending another year in a Residential College may be the right fit for you.
2. The Colleges
There are five Residential Colleges for upperclassmen. Warren and Moore Colleges are located near Wilson and connect to Kissam. E. Bronson Ingram College (known to most as EBI) is located near Alumni Lawn. Nicholas S. Zeppos College is close to the bookstore. Finally, Rothschild College (which opens next year) will be near Greek Row. With all colleges located on main campus, most of you will not be far from classes. However, for Peabody students, this housing option may put you far away from your classes.
3. Rooms
All five Residential Colleges have single and double rooms as well as suites. Suites include individual rooms for each resident, a kitchen, a bathroom, and a common living space. All residential colleges offer 4-person suites; Warren and Moore also offer a 5 and 6-person option. Roommates in double rooms must be of the same gender; however, suitemates may be of different genders (if you so choose). The question of whom you would like to live with is another important thing to consider when thinking about housing for next year.
4. Extra Fee
While housing costs are usually consistent regardless of where you reside on campus, there is an exception when it comes to the Residential Colleges. This is because residents are required to pay a Residential College Experience Fee to help fund house event. The fee for next year is expected to be $396.90 per semester. Keep this in mind when you are deciding where you want to live.
5. Food
Unlike most other housing on campus, all five Residential Colleges are connected to some form of dining. EBI and Zeppos both have full dining halls on the ground floor. Warren and Moore are connected to Kissam, which includes the Kitchen at Kissam and a Munchie Mart. Rothschild will have both a full dining hall and a Munchie Mart. If having food nearby is important to you, a Residential College will provide you with that opportunity.
Final Thoughts
The housing process can feel stressful and confusing (I know because I am going through it myself). I hope this has provided a little insight into what life may look like if you opt to live in a Residential College next year. For more information, check out OHARE’s Residential College guide.