laladylynda

Where to Live Freshman Year

Every dorm room at USD is far superior to any dorm I've seen at other colleges, mostly because of the large size of them. You have three basic selections, each with their own benefits and setbacks, but you can't go wrong with any of them.

In Camino/Founders, the benefits are it's right on campus and classes are often right downstairs. The setbacks are that Camino is an all-male building, located across from the all-female Founders, which makes it difficult for coed interaction. Plus, there are also usually three-four people per room, rarely two, and communal bathrooms.

In Maher, the benefits are that it's right on campus in the center of everything, it's coed by wing, and you get your own bathroom. Setbacks: You have to clean your own bathroom, and three people per room makes one person the odd one out.

In Missions B, the benefits are it's still on campus but far enough from classes to feel like you aren't at school all the time. There's a maximum of two people per room, each room is very spacious, some singles are available, and it's the best social atmosphere. Setbacks: 72 "death" stairs to get to main campus, it's often a long walk to science/business buildings, and there are communal bathrooms.

Missions A benefits are it's suite-style living with one bathroom per suite. Suites include two rooms with two people per room and a living room. Setbacks: It's secluded from other places and has a basement-like feel.

Great Asset but Not Main Focus

Greek life is not the center of attention at USD. There is NO official Greek housing, and Greek life is much more laid-back than at other schools. USD does not tolerate hazing in the slightest; in fact, the opposite takes place with showering of love and gifts. It is the best way to get access to parties, but it is not the end of the world if you don't join one. The sororities and frats all work together rather than compete against each other. Price per semester can be costly, but hey, it is USD.

Just Be Careful

During the first few weeks of school, police will be very harsh on any underage drinking and partying. The school is VERY strict on any drug use or abuse of alcohol and will put you in detox. First-time offenses for alcohol usually aren't bad, just a slap on the wrist, but any drugs are not tolerated. Once the first few weeks pass, it is pretty easy to get away with drinking and drugs if you are quiet about it.