Before I moved in as a freshman at Fairfield, it would have been nice to know what to expect from the building I moved into. What would be the benefits and downsides of that residence hall? Whether you are an incoming freshman or a rising upperclassman, it is helpful to gain a little bit of insight or reminisce on the pros and cons of your first-year living experience. Keep in mind that everyone has different first year experience insight; these are just my opinions!

1. Regis
Pros: The main reason to love Regis is because of its spaciousness and hotel-like feel. Even though the floors of Regis are spread out, the elevator is extremely accessible. It is also in close proximity to both Barone and the academic buildings, while the other freshman dorms are still accessible to walk to. Another plus, bathrooms in Regis are typically kept clean.

Cons: If you do not take the elevator, the hike up to the fourth floor is a long one; there are seemingly endless flights of stairs. The lounges are not in convenient locations in comparison to those in other buildings.

2. Gonzaga
Pros: Gonzaga is the closest freshman dorm to Barone and the academic buildings. The building is only feet away from Canisius that holds the College of Arts and Sciences. Running late to class or sleeping in that extra 30 minutes is not a problem when you are only a short walk away from class.

Cons: During my freshman year I loved living right on the quad. Gonzaga, although not too far away, is not considered to be a part of the quad.

3. Jogues
Pros: Ah, good ol’ Jogues ... the freshman dorm I resided in. In my opinion, the best aspect of Jogues is the lounges. They are in a great location and are used quite frequently. Since every lounge is in the middle of the two wings of each hallway, it is a great meeting place to study or do homework. Residential life would often host special events like pancake breakfasts, movie nights, spa nights, et cetera. Even though the floors house both males and females, they are separated by wing. This might prove to be important for some.

Cons: Jogues is the farthest dorm from the dining hall and the academic buildings. Walking across the quad can be brutal during the winter months when the sidewalks can get icy and slippery. The dorm rooms feel smaller than the rooms in Gonzaga and Regis, as well.

4. Campion
Pros: Campion is the closest dorm to the townhouses. Any rising sophomore can vouch for how long the walk to the townhouses can be if you are coming from Jogues, Regis or Gonzaga. It may seem minor, but it does make a difference when it is freezing cold outside.

Cons: The layout of Campion can be confusing and feels somewhat maze-like. It is strange when you first enter because there is only one small staircase and no windows, which makes it feel cramped at times.