Introduction
When it comes to finding the right college, there are countless factors to consider. One of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects is housing. After all, your dorm room will be your home away from home for the next four years, so it’s essential to find a comfortable, safe, and welcoming space. In this blog post, we will explore the dorms at Oberlin College, one of the top liberal arts colleges in the United States, and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right living arrangements for your needs.
Dorms at Oberlin College
Overview of Dorms at Oberlin College
Oberlin College offers a variety of housing options for its students, ranging from traditional dormitories to apartments and houses. First-year students are required to live on campus and are assigned to one of the five first-year residential communities, while upperclassmen have the option to live in a variety of housing options, including traditional dormitories, theme houses, apartments, and co-ops.
Each dormitory at Oberlin College has its own unique character and community, making it essential to consider your options carefully. Here are some of the different housing options available at Oberlin College:
Traditional Dormitories
Traditional dormitories at Oberlin College are clustered around central courtyards, creating a sense of community among residents. Most rooms are doubles, although there are some singles and triples available. Each floor typically has a communal bathroom and lounge area, creating opportunities for residents to socialize and get to know each other.
Theme Houses
Theme houses at Oberlin College are designed for students with shared interests, ranging from cultural and social justice issues to environmental sustainability and the arts. Each house has its own theme, and residents are expected to participate in events and activities related to that theme. Living in a theme house is an excellent way to connect with like-minded students and develop a sense of community.
Apartments and Co-ops
Upperclassmen at Oberlin College have the option to live in apartments or co-ops. Apartments are typically shared by two to six students and come with a kitchen, living room, and private bedrooms. Co-ops are student-run living communities where residents share cooking and cleaning responsibilities. Living in an apartment or co-op can provide greater independence and privacy than traditional dormitories.
With these options in mind, let’s dive deeper into the dorms at Oberlin College.
First-Year Residential Communities
First-year students at Oberlin College are assigned to one of five first-year residential communities: Barrows, Dascomb, Fairchild, Kahn, or South. Each community has its own unique character, offering a different experience for residents.
Barrows
Located in the center of campus, Barrows is home to over 200 first-year students. The dormitory features traditional doubles, triples, and quads, as well as some single rooms. Barrows has a spacious common area and a piano room, making it an excellent choice for music lovers.
Dascomb
Dascomb is a co-ed dormitory located near the art museum and music conservatory. The dormitory features singles, doubles, and triples, as well as a large common room and a study lounge. Dascomb is known for its friendly and welcoming community, making it an excellent choice for students who value a supportive environment.
Fairchild
Fairchild is located near the athletic facilities and features singles, doubles, and some triples. The dormitory has a large common area, a study lounge, and a music practice room. Fairchild is known for its active and social community, making it an excellent choice for students who enjoy sports and socializing.
Kahn
Located near the science center, Kahn is home to over 200 first-year students. The dormitory features doubles and some triples, as well as a common area, study lounges, and a music practice room. Kahn is known for its diverse and inclusive community, making it an excellent choice for students who value social justice and activism.
South
South is located near the center of campus and is home to over 300 first-year students. The dormitory features singles, doubles, and some triples, as well as a large common area, a study lounge, and a music practice room. South is known for its vibrant and diverse community, making it an excellent choice for students who value cultural exchange and socialization.
Traditional Dormitories
In addition to the first-year residential communities, Oberlin College has several traditional dormitories that house upperclassmen. Here are some of the options available:
Talcott
Talcott is a co-ed dormitory located near the center of campus. The dormitory features doubles, triples, and quads, as well as a large common area and study lounges. Talcott is known for its laid-back and social atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for students who enjoy community living.
Barrows Hall
Barrows Hall is located near the center of campus and is home to upperclassmen. The dormitory features doubles, triples, and quads, as well as a large common area, study lounges, and a music practice room. Barrows Hall is known for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for students who value a sense of community.
Dascomb Hall
Dascomb Hall is home to upperclassmen and is located near the art museum and music conservatory. The dormitory features singles, doubles, and triples, as well as a large common area, study lounges, and a music practice room. Dascomb Hall is known for its welcoming and supportive community, making it an excellent choice for students who value a sense of belonging.
Theme Houses
Theme houses are a unique housing option at Oberlin College that allows students to live with others who share their interests. Here are some of the options available:
Asia House
Asia House is a theme house that focuses on Asian and Asian-American culture. Residents participate in cultural events and activities, such as Lunar New Year celebrations and tea ceremonies. Living in Asia House is an excellent way to connect with other students who share an interest in Asian culture.
Eco House
Eco House is a theme house that focuses on environmental sustainability and social justice. Residents participate in activities such as composting and gardening, as well as organizing events and protests related to environmental issues. Living in Eco House is an excellent choice for students who are passionate about sustainability and activism.
Spanish House
Spanish House is a theme house that focuses on Spanish language and culture. Residents participate in activities such as language exchange programs, cooking classes, and dance parties. Living in Spanish House is an excellent choice for students who are interested in improving their Spanish skills and immersing themselves in Spanish culture.
Apartments and Co-ops
Upperclassmen at Oberlin College have the option to live in apartments or co-ops. Here are some of the options available:
Goldsmith
Goldsmith is an apartment complex located near the center of campus. Apartments are shared by two to six students and come with a kitchen, living room, and private bedrooms. Goldsmith is known for its convenient location and spacious living areas, making it an excellent choice for students who want a more independent living experience.
Fairchild
Fairchild is a co-op located near the center of campus. Residents participate in cooking and cleaning duties and share communal spaces such as kitchens and living areas. Fairchild is known for its close-knit community and emphasis on sustainability and social justice.
Harknes
Harkness is a co-op located near the art museum and music conservatory. Residents participate in cooking and cleaning duties and share communal spaces such as kitchens and living areas. Harkness is known for its artistic and creative community, making it an excellent choice for students who value self-expression and collaboration.
Overall, the dorms at Oberlin College offer a wide range of options for students to choose from. Whether you prefer a close-knit community or a more independent living experience, there is a housing option that will suit your needs. The residential communities at Oberlin are known for their diverse and inclusive communities, making it an excellent choice for students who value social justice and cultural exchange. Additionally, the apartments and co-ops provide upperclassmen with the opportunity to take on more responsibility and live independently while still enjoying the support of a community.