lawschoolapplicant11 wrote:What are the dorms like? Are they quiet/loud? Are they clean? How do bathrooms work (like individual shower stalls)?
What do people do for food in dorms? Are there any grocery stores or do people get a meal plan?
The dorm environment is varied depending on which one you choose. I'll try to give a quick rundown, although better explanations could probably be found on the housing website.
North Hall - A little bit off campus and kind of more expensive. It used to be a hotel and therefore looks and lives how you would expect a hotel to. It is not a very social place to live, but it is quiet if that is your deal. You also have a private bathroom.
Hastings - You have your own bedroom, but you share a living room with someone else. These places are pretty fun with people throwing parties and pregames on the weekends. Kind of expensive again, but definitely prettier than the other two options. Shared bathrooms (single sex) with individual shower stalls.
Gropius - Classic dorm experience. Small boxes with enough room to cram in all of your belongings. Not loud at all, but very social experience. Lots of open doors lead to relatively quickly formed friendships. My two best friends here live on my hall. Cheapest option in Cambridge. Large single sex bathrooms with individual shower stalls. They are kept very clean though, so don't let the public part of it scare you away.
There are a few grocery stores nearby and several delivery services. Lots of people cook because the kitchens are brand new and very nice.
I hope that covers everything. I'll be around if you have more questions.