Introduction
Occidental College is a private liberal arts college located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1887, it has a long-standing reputation for providing a high-quality education and a rich campus life. One of the most important aspects of campus life is the housing options for students. For many incoming freshmen, the dorms at Occidental College are their first experience of living away from home. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the dorms at Occidental College and what makes them a great choice for students.
Housing Options
Occidental College offers a variety of housing options to suit the needs of its diverse student body. Freshmen are required to live on campus for their first two years, and most choose to live in one of the traditional residence halls. These halls are divided into two sections: the quad and the suites. The quad consists of four interconnected buildings, each housing approximately 40 students. The suites are smaller, with each housing around 20 students. Both options offer communal living spaces, such as lounges and study rooms, as well as shared bathrooms.
For upperclassmen, Occidental College offers several options, including themed housing communities and apartment-style living. Themed housing communities are groups of students who live together based on a shared interest or identity, such as sustainability or LGBTQ+ advocacy. These communities offer a unique living experience and the opportunity to connect with like-minded peers. Apartment-style living is available in a variety of configurations, from one-bedroom to four-bedroom apartments. These options offer more privacy and independence, as well as the opportunity to cook meals and host friends.
Amenities
Living on campus at Occidental College means access to a wide range of amenities designed to make student life comfortable and convenient. Each residence hall has a resident advisor (RA) who serves as a resource and advocate for students. RAs plan events and activities, provide support for academic and personal concerns, and help enforce community standards. In addition to RAs, each building has a front desk staffed by student workers who can assist with mail and package delivery, key checkout, and other administrative tasks.
All dorms at Occidental College have wireless internet access and laundry facilities. Many buildings have kitchenettes or communal kitchens, which allow students to prepare meals and snacks. The campus dining options are also varied, with several dining halls and cafes offering a range of cuisines and dietary options. For students who like to stay active, there are several fitness facilities, including a gym, a pool, and outdoor recreational spaces.
Community
Living in the dorms at Occidental College means becoming part of a vibrant and welcoming community. From the first day on campus, students are encouraged to get involved and make connections with their peers. Each residence hall has its own unique culture and traditions, and students often form close friendships with their hallmates. There are also opportunities to get involved in hall council, which is responsible for planning events and activities for the building.
Beyond the individual residence halls, there are several campus-wide organizations that promote a sense of community among all students. The Office of Student Life sponsors a wide range of events, from concerts and lectures to cultural celebrations and community service projects. The Associated Students of Occidental College (ASOC) is the student government organization and provides opportunities for students to participate in governance and advocacy. Additionally, there are over 100 student clubs and organizations on campus, covering a wide range of interests from sports and politics to the arts and culture.
Sustainability
Occidental College is committed to sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint. This commitment extends to the dorms, where there are several initiatives to promote environmentally friendly living. All residence halls have recycling and composting programs, and students are encouraged to reduce waste and conserve resources. The college also offers a bike share program, which allows students to borrow bicycles for free, promoting sustainable transportation.
In addition to these initiatives, Occidental College has several LEED-certified buildings on campus, including the Samuelson Pavilion, which houses the campus fitness center, and the Swan Hall classroom building. These buildings feature energy-efficient lighting, heating and cooling systems, and water-saving fixtures. The college also has a solar array that generates up to 11% of the campus’s electricity.
Conclusion
The dorms at Occidental College offer a comfortable and convenient living experience for students. With a variety of housing options, amenities, and a strong sense of community, students can find a home away from home on campus. Additionally, the college’s commitment to sustainability ensures that students can live in an environmentally friendly and responsible manner. Overall, the dorms at Occidental College provide an excellent foundation for students to thrive academically, socially, and personally.
