What is considered the best dorm for freshmen?
Mertz is the “social” dorm since it’s the biggest building with only freshman in it. However, it’s pretty old and crappy. If I were you, I would go for San Fran or DeNobili (DeNobili has the dining hall so you would have it right under where you live which is super convenient), because these two are super new and have a more industrial design to them. I’m about quality when it comes to where I live; you’ll make friends anywhere if that’s what you’re concerned with.
Mertz and Campion (the honors dorm) are a bit out-dated. Regis is really nice, as are de Nobili and San Fran. I’m pretty sure you can virtually tour the rooms on Loyola’s website as well to get a better sense of the layouts. The south end of campus is all pretty nice for freshmen.