Introduction
When it comes to college life, one of the most important decisions a student has to make is where to live. For those attending Illinois State University, the options are varied and plentiful, with each dormitory offering a unique living experience. In this blog post, we’ll take an in-depth look at the dorms available at Illinois State University, exploring their amenities, features, and what makes each one special.
Dorms at Illinois State University
Watterson Towers
Watterson Towers is a well-known dormitory on the Illinois State University campus. It is easily recognizable as the tallest building in Bloomington-Normal, standing at 28 stories high. With over 2,200 students, Watterson is the largest residence hall on campus, offering both single and double rooms to students. The dormitory is divided into four towers, each with their own unique name: Hewett, Wilkins, Manchester, and Atkin. Each tower offers a distinct living experience, with varying levels of quietness and socialization.
One of the main perks of living in Watterson is the convenience it offers. The building is connected to the Bone Student Center, which houses the campus dining hall and a multitude of recreational and social spaces. Additionally, each floor of Watterson has its own study lounge, allowing students to work on homework or collaborate with classmates without having to leave the building. Another unique feature of Watterson is its “skywalks,” which connect the towers and offer students a stunning view of the campus and surrounding area.
Cardinal Court
Cardinal Court is an apartment-style living option for students attending Illinois State University. Unlike traditional dormitories, Cardinal Court offers full-sized kitchens and a living room in each apartment, giving students the freedom to cook and entertain guests. Each apartment also includes a washer and dryer, eliminating the need for students to use shared laundry facilities.
One of the biggest advantages of living in Cardinal Court is the sense of community it offers. The complex features a clubhouse and courtyard, which serves as a hub for social events and gatherings. Additionally, the complex is located just a few blocks away from the Illinois State University campus, making it easy for students to commute to classes. Another benefit of living in Cardinal Court is the sense of independence it provides. Students are able to live on their own terms, with the freedom to set their own schedules and routines.
Manchester Hall
Manchester Hall is a dormitory on the Illinois State University campus that offers a unique living experience. It is a smaller dormitory, with just over 300 students, and is known for its tight-knit community. Manchester Hall is divided into “houses,” each with its own unique name and identity. This setup encourages students to build strong relationships with their peers and fosters a sense of belonging.
One of the standout features of Manchester Hall is its location. It is located in the heart of campus, making it easy for students to get to classes and other campus events. The dormitory also features a dining hall, eliminating the need for students to venture off-campus for meals. Another perk of living in Manchester Hall is the focus on academics. The dormitory is home to the Manchester Scholars Program, which offers a variety of resources and support to students who are pursuing academic excellence.
Hewett and Wilkins Halls
Hewett and Wilkins Halls are two dormitories on the Illinois State University campus that are often paired together. They offer a unique living experience, with the two buildings connected by a common area that features a large lounge and kitchen. The dormitories offer both single and double rooms, and each floor has its own bathroom and shower facilities.
One of the main perks of living in Hewett and Wilkins Halls is the community atmosphere they provide. The common area that connects the two buildings serves as a hub for social events and gatherings, allowing students to meet and connect with their peers. Additionally, the dormitories are located just a short walk away from the Bone Student Center, making it easy for students to access dining and recreational facilities.
Another unique feature of Hewett and Wilkins Halls is their focus on sustainability. Both dormitories are LEED-certified, meaning that they meet strict standards for energy efficiency and sustainability. This includes features such as energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and recycling programs. For students who are passionate about environmentalism, living in these dormitories is a great way to make a positive impact on the planet.
Tri-Towers Residence Halls
The Tri-Towers Residence Halls are a set of three dormitories on the Illinois State University campus: Hewett, Wilkins, and Manchester. These dormitories are often grouped together, as they share many amenities and features. Collectively, they offer housing for over 1,400 students, with a mix of single and double rooms available.
One of the standout features of the Tri-Towers is the variety of living options they offer. Each dormitory has its own unique identity, with varying levels of socialization and quietness. This allows students to choose the living environment that best suits their needs and preferences. Additionally, the Tri-Towers are located in a central location on campus, making it easy for students to get to classes and other campus events.
Another benefit of living in the Tri-Towers is the sense of community they provide. Each dormitory has its own set of events and activities, and the common areas that connect the buildings serve as a hub for socializing and meeting new people. Additionally, the Tri-Towers are home to a variety of specialized living-learning communities, which offer students the opportunity to live with others who share similar interests or majors.
Conclusion
Choosing a dormitory is an important decision for any college student, and the options available at Illinois State University are varied and plentiful. From the towering heights of Watterson to the community-focused living of Manchester Hall, there is a dormitory to suit every student’s needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a sense of independence or a tight-knit community, there is a place for you at Illinois State University.