06/13/24 by Zack Saadioui
Choosing the right dormitory is an essential part of the college experience, especially at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), renowned for its beautiful campus and high-quality student facilities. This guide will walk you through some of the best dorms at WashU, helping you make an informed decision based on quality, amenities, and student reviews.
The South 40 is akin to a small town, housing most of the freshmen and sophomore students. It is a hub of student life, equipped with everything from a fitness center to dining options that operate past midnight. Its vibrant community and comprehensive facilities make it a top choice for new students.
The South 40 offers a comprehensive college life experience with its annual Res College Olympics and various student-run businesses. However, the ongoing renovations and the presence of only freshmen and sophomores might not appeal to everyone.
Primarily housing juniors and some sophomores, The Village is known for its sophisticated living spaces, complete with kitchenettes. It is close to the athletic center and boasts an outdoor pool and its own dining center, making it perfect for more independent students.
While offering more upscale accommodations and independence, The Village does not host the vibrant underclassmen activities found in the South 40.
Many students choose off-campus living for greater independence and often lower costs. Notably, apartments such as those provided by WashU are convenient but can be pricey.
Located above lively Delmar Loop, The Lofts offer vibrant nightlife and convenience but at a premium rate.
All freshmen are required to live on campus, generally within the South 40. Freshmen have the option to select their housing style, but not the specific dorm, which adds an element of surprise to their first year.
WashU is ranked highly for its campus dining by the Princeton Review. Dining centers like Bear's Den offer a variety of options, and the campus also features a Starbucks-style café and the ability to purchase groceries with meal points.
New students often worry about privacy, space, and the quality of life when transitioning to dorm living. Washu's dorms are designed to ease these concerns with features like suite-style bathrooms in most dormitories and regular renovations to older facilities like Lee/Beaumont, ensuring that even the "worst" dorms are still quite livable.
Choosing the right dorm at WashU depends on personal preferences related to social activities, privacy, and amenities. Whether you enjoy the bustling community of the South 40 or the more subdued and independent lifestyle of The Village or off-campus living, WashU offers something for every student. As you consider your options, reflect on what aspects of dorm life are most important to you and how they align with your academic and personal goals.