What’s it like? Would love any additional insight on the Residential College experience (social life, academics, types of kids who do it, etc…)
It’s always dangerous to generalize, but RC students tend to be “arty” or socially involved, that is involved in one of the creative or performing arts or interested in social issues. That’s probably because the RC has well known drama, creative writing and social science programs. And of course the distinguishing feature of the RC is its foreign language requirement. This goes beyond requiring the study of a foreign language to requiring that you pass a very rigorous proficiency exam. RC languages courses are exceptionally well taught but famous (infamously) intensive. That’s why they are double-credit.
All first-year RC students live in East Quad, which creates a special bond which continues afterwords. To stereotype, RC students would be classified as socially liberal but gone are the “hippie” days. It’s a place for students who want to be part of a small community.
Because of its onerous language requirement, the academic load can be quite heavy. But remember: you can take courses in LSA, follow an LSA major, and do Honors if you want. RC isn’t exclusive in that regard. And the RC has its own counseling and advising staff, which is nice.