The residential and social life of Dartmouth students are integral parts of a comprehensive learning environment, and contribute substantially to each student's intellectual and personal growth and well-being. Dartmouth provides students with an environment that encourages them to stretch themselves and reach their full potential in nonacademic as well as academic activities. Students are part of a community that sees them as individuals, that permits them choices in their social life, and encourages respectful relationships between women and men.
A vibrant student life at Dartmouth engenders a strong sense of involvement in and responsibility for the community life at the College. It also assures opportunities to meet and learn from - as well as develop enduring friendships with - others who have different backgrounds, experiences, and expectations.
In total, there are more than 50 different residential facilities at Dartmouth. The traditional residence halls are coed and generally house students from all four classes. Facilities include academic affinity, cultural affinity, quiet, smoke-free, and other special interest housing. There is a wide range of arrangements from traditional dormitories to free-standing homes to apartment-style facilities.
Within the residence halls, professional and student staff provide support for undergraduates and foster a sense of community. Activities organized in each residence hall vary from term to term and often include lectures, movies, symposia featuring campus visitors, intramural sports, musical and dramatic performances, discussions, group advising, and study breaks.
All Dartmouth students in residence maintain meal contracts through Dartmouth's nationally recognized dining service and may choose to eat in any of the dozen College dining facilities. Offerings include standard American fare, vegetarian, kosher, halal and sakhara selections along with a rotating menu inspired by the many cultures and traditions our students represent.
