Introduction:
As a liberal arts college situated in Portland, Oregon, Reed College is known for its unique academic programs, intellectual rigor, and diverse student body. The college has a vibrant residential life with a variety of housing options for students, including residence halls, theme houses, and student co-ops. In this blog post, we will explore the dorms at Reed College and provide a detailed overview of what it’s like to live on campus.
Dorms at Reed College
Location and Layout:
Reed College has several residence halls located throughout the campus. The residence halls are divided into two areas: the East and the West sides of campus. The East side is home to the newest residence hall, the Anna Mann House, which is reserved for upperclassmen. The West side houses the majority of the first-year students, and the most popular residence halls on this side of campus are the Naito-Sullivan and the Foster-Scholz halls.
The dorm rooms at Reed College are designed to accommodate two students each, and they come equipped with two twin beds, two desks, and two dressers. Most of the rooms have large windows that allow natural light to flood the space, and some even have beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The residence halls are equipped with Wi-Fi, and each room has access to high-speed internet.
Amenities:
Reed College provides its students with several amenities that make dorm living comfortable and convenient. The residence halls have communal kitchens, laundry rooms, and lounges that are available to all students. The kitchens are equipped with stovetops, ovens, and refrigerators, allowing students to prepare their meals. The laundry rooms are equipped with washing machines and dryers, and students can use them free of charge.
The lounges are the heart of the residence halls, and they are great spaces for students to relax, socialize, and study. Most lounges have comfortable seating, board games, and TVs, and they are great places to hang out with friends. Additionally, the residence halls have resident advisors (RAs) who live on each floor and are available to assist students with any issues they may have.
Atmosphere:
The dorms at Reed College are known for their tight-knit communities and welcoming atmosphere. The college’s residential life program fosters a sense of community among the students, and many dorms have their traditions and rituals. For example, the Foster-Scholz hall has a tradition of playing a game called “Humans vs. Zombies” every year, which involves the entire dorm and is a great way for students to bond.
Furthermore, the residence halls host several events throughout the year, such as game nights, movie screenings, and pizza parties. These events are great opportunities for students to meet new people and socialize with their peers. The RAs also organize study groups and other academic programs that help students succeed in their classes.
Theme Houses and Co-Ops:
Apart from the traditional residence halls, Reed College also has several theme houses and student co-ops that provide unique housing options for students. The theme houses are designed for students with specific interests or identities, and they provide a space for like-minded students to live and collaborate. Some of the popular theme houses at Reed College include the Outdoors House, the Veggie Co-op, and the Russian House.
The student co-ops, on the other hand, are student-run communities that provide affordable housing options for students. The co-ops are managed by the residents themselves, and they are responsible for cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the living space. The co-ops provide a unique opportunity for students to learn valuable life skills, such as budgeting, teamwork, and leadership.
Conclusion:
Overall, the dorms at Reed College provide students with comfortable and convenient living spaces that foster a sense of community and support student success. With a variety of housing options available, students can find a living arrangement that suits their needs and interests. The college’s residential life program and the active involvement of RAs ensure that students feel supported and connected to their peers.
Additionally, the theme houses and student co-ops provide unique opportunities for students to explore their interests and develop valuable life skills. Living on campus at Reed College is an enriching experience that contributes to a well-rounded education and personal growth.
