Written by Lauren Foster
Housing at Wellesley really is a matter of taste—the dorms all have different personalities, and just as many students would prefer a dank room in Munger over a lake view in Stone-Davis, and vice versa. Unfortunately, there are a limited number of suites, mostly because Wellesley was designed to promote studiousness, not sociability. Some students also chafe at the strict supervision of residential staff. Every once in a while, students in the East Side dorms will attempt to rejuvenate East Side Pride, but the truth is that many students count themselves blessed to escape McAfee perdition after their first year. Tower is Wellesley's showpiece, with the beautiful Tower Great Hall and some fantastic rooms replete with wooden floors and window seats.
First-year students have no choice where they live, but after that, it's largely up to personal preference and luck in the housing lottery. But even if you strike out, you can try for a room swap. A lake view lifts the spirits, as does being in a social dorm where people are likely to prop open their doors from time to time. If you're going to be sticking to an early-to-bed, early-to-rise schedule after your first year, consider one of the more studious dorms. If you're looking for a more relaxed attitude—as in, no one knocking on your door to say you're playing your music too loud—consider Lake House. Overall, while Wellesley has beautiful, diverse housing, independent living is largely out, as is the more social setup that suites would provide.