College is a time of growth, and at Kenyon, we believe students should have the chance to learn more about themselves and others during their time here. That’s why our team takes great care in reviewing every housing application and each individual response—tens of thousands of data points in total—to thoughtfully pair roommates who are not only compatible, but who will also support each other’s personal and social development. This approach also takes the pressure off incoming students to find a roommate right away—we handle that part, so they can focus on getting excited for the journey ahead.
Most first-year students share a double room, though some may be assigned to a single. Single rooms are based on availability and need. All first-year residence halls are alcohol-free and smoke-free living environments.
First-year students live in one of five residence halls dedicated to community-building within their cohort: Gund, Lewis, Mather, McBride and Norton.
For photos of spaces and room dimensions, select a hall below.
First-Year Quad
Gund, Lewis and Norton residence halls surround the First-Year Quad, an open green space.
First-Year Halls
Two first-year halls are located near Gund Commons: Mather, which also houses upperclass students, and McBride, the largest first-year residence hall.
Student to Student
Students in the first-year residences offer incoming students a peek into their rooms.
“I think the most important thing for incoming students coming to a new place is a warm welcome, and I see the door decorations as playing a huge role in welcoming students and helping foster a sense of belonging in the dorm.”
Super CAs
Community Advisors are leaders in building a sense of belonging in the College’s residence halls, whether it’s by organizing programs or lending a helping hand.