Exploring the Best Dorms at Dartmouth College

Dartmouth College offers a variety of dormitory options, each with its own unique features and community atmosphere. Whether you prefer modern amenities, scenic views, or a cozy environment, there's a dorm that fits your preferences. This article will guide you through the top dorms available, including North Park House, The River, East Wheelock House, The Lodge, and South House. We will also discuss the location and amenities of newer dorms like Hitchcock, Fahey-McLane, and the McLaughlins.

Top Dorms at Dartmouth College

North Park House

North Park House is known for its modern amenities and spacious rooms, making it a popular choice among upperclassmen. It boasts a vibrant community and is situated close to academic buildings, ensuring you have easy access to your studies. With its contemporary design and amenities, North Park House provides a comfortable and functional living environment.

The River

The River is celebrated for its gorgeous scenic views of the Connecticut River and its proximity to outdoor activities. It has a cozy atmosphere and a strong sense of community, making it a delightful place to call home. The River is a great spot for students who enjoy socializing and participating in dorm activities.

East Wheelock House

East Wheelock House is a residence hall that is celebrated for its supportive community and is highly favored by first-year students. It offers a unique living-learning environment with faculty involvement, providing an enriching experience for its residents. This dorm is known for fostering strong relationships among its inhabitants and creating a learning atmosphere that extends beyond the classroom.

The Lodge

The Lodge features a rustic design and is known for its close-knit community. It is located near the historic Green and hosts various events and social gatherings throughout the year. The Lodge is an excellent choice for those who prefer a cozy and community-focused living environment.

South House

South House is recognized for its spacious common areas and strong sense of community. It is an ideal choice for students who enjoy socializing and participating in dorm activities. The common areas provide ample space for relaxation and interaction, making South House a lively and engaging community.

Additional Considerations: Hitchcock, Fahey-McLane, and McLaughlins

Adding to the dormitory options at Dartmouth are hitchcock, Fahey-McLane, and the recently renovated dorms along the Gold Coast. Hitchcock, recently renovated, is as good as the new dorms in East Wheelock and the McLaughlins, and is conveniently located in the center of campus.

Fahey and McLane are also noteworthy. While these dorms are newer and centrally located, they offer a cozy and comfortable environment for students. They are known for their large freshman presence and are situated relatively close to academic and social activities.

Top Choice Dorms for Freshmen

As a freshman, you are typically limited to these five spots:

The River: Viewed as the worst housing to get due to its distance from everything and being one of the oldest dorms. The Choates: A fun place to be, with lots of interaction between floors and a significant freshman presence. It is closer to classrooms and social activities compared to The River cluster. McLaughlin: One of the best dorms to choose as a freshman, with extremely nice rooms and a large freshman presence. A bit farther from classrooms and social activities, but definitely worth the walk. Russell Sage: Located at the center of campus, with slightly older rooms of medium size and occasional singles. These rooms are of higher quality than the Choates. Fahey: Recently built and located right next to Russell Sage, it offers spacious rooms and is one of the best places to live as a freshman or upperclassman.

Each dorm has its pros and cons, but Dartmouth ensures that each UGA organizes numerous freshmen events and activities. You can't go wrong with any of the dorms, as they all offer unique living experiences.

Upperclassmen Housing Options

For upperclassmen, there are various housing options emphasizing proximity to the gym, social scene, and academic needs. Popular choices include:

Fahey: Offers 5 room suites with only 4 available. Mass Row: Known for doubles and triples. Fayerweathers: Known for doubles and triples. Woodward/Ripley/Smith: Known for singles.

Ultimately, the best dorm for you may depend on your personal preferences regarding community, location, and amenities. The atmosphere and connections you make within your dorm are just as important as the physical attributes of the buildings.

Summary

Choosing the right dorm can significantly impact your Dartmouth experience. From modern amenities and scenic views to a cozy and supportive community, each dorm offers something unique. Whether you are a freshman or an upperclassman, Dartmouth provides a variety of options that suit different preferences and lifestyles. At the end of the day, the best dorm is one that enhances your academic and social experience.