Hey all, I’m an incoming freshman and was recently assigned to a single in Balch. Balch wasn’t my first choice (or any choice, for that matter) but after reading quite a bit about it, I’m more inclined to be excited about my placement there. I have a couple questions, if anyone knows the answers:
Specifically, room checks. How often do RAs check your room, if at all? I’ve noticed that some things aren’t allowed in rooms like tapestries or using push pins to hang things, but I’m still contemplating doing it anyway, and I want to make sure I won’t permanently be labeled a fire hazard. Also, there’s the whole hiding alcohol thing, but that’s a separate issue. Privacy is important to me, which is partially why I wanted a single room, and I want to make sure my freshman year doesn’t feel like a long, grueling summer camp. Balch already gives off that vibe.
Also, my room is 3225. Anyone know what it looks like?\
Balch is nice and quiet, per my D. She is in a low rise.
You can use adhesive hooks that do not damage the wall to hang things. Be creative. If you used push pins or anything that is not permitted, you could get fine if caught. My D said it is not worth the risk.
RA may check rooms once a semester but could be more.
I lived in Balch my first year and personally loved it (peace and quiet, close to campus, cafe in the building, sink rooms, generally bigger rooms than the other dorms).
My RA checked our rooms maybe once a semester, although I really don’t remember. I wouldn’t use push pins or anything that could leave a mark (I think I actually did use push pins my freshman year in areas where the marks wouldn’t be noticeable and took them down when my RA checked, but probably don’t be like me). Command hooks and strips are better than push pins, anyway, so probably stick to those. I’m not sure how strict they are with tapestries; I stuck to the rules on those until I moved off campus into an apartment.
If you have more questions about Balch, I’d be happy to answer!
My D lived in Balch last year. It is very quiet. It was not my D’s choice either, but she made plenty of friends in other dorms. Definitely use Command hooks instead of pins. I don’t know about tapestries, but this is a very old dorm with old wiring, so I would avoid any fire hazards if I were you. I think you get a warning prior to room checks. My D said her RAs were actually less strict than those in some of the other dorms, probably because they didn’t have to police any wild parties. The one difference with Balch is that male guests have to be escorted by the resident at all times, including trips to the bathroom. Some rooms in Balch are large, but others are tiny.
3225 was the room my friend was in this summer and she loved it. Try and keep your door open, it is a great way to make friends. That is how my friend and I met! It also helps with the heat.