<p>I will be transferring to UMass Amherst for the fall 2015 semester as a 22 year old junior. I plan to major in biology. I have done a ton of research about housing but there are so many options. It is really overwhelming. I would like to be in a more quiet area with the least amount of "partying" possible while living close to the academic science buildings. It doesn't matter if I live in a dorm, although I would prefer a suite or apartment. It definitely has to be on campus. Advice?</p>
<p>Sylvan is where they put most transfers. Its a pretty depressing part of campus away from everyone else and its suite style living- which I guess is a plus for you. Most people really do hate it there unless they move together into a suite with all their friends. If you don’t know anyone I heard most people keep their doors locked all the time there and there isn’t much socializing. </p>
<p>Lets assume you have a choice though: </p>
<p>Northeast is definitely the place with the least amount of partying possible and it is also the residential area closest to all the science buildings. Its also really close to Worcester which happens to be the worst dining hall on campus but at least its open until midnight. The food there almost made me throw up one time though- I would avoid it if possible. </p>
<p>Orchard Hill is where I’m living and I would recommend it for a science major. Im computer science and there’s plenty of us here- but I’ve also met tons of chem majors, bio majors, and physics majors (along with some engineering and biochem. Also a lot of political science majors). Its pretty close to the science buildings- nothing too crazy of a walk. Its also close to Franklin- a much better dining hall. The food really isn’t that bad at Frank even though everyone on campus will go crazy over berkshire because its award winning. Yes berkshire is amazing but Frank isn’t that far away from it- just has less options to be honest. Although Orchard Hill is quiet there are some floors where people party- but most end up leaving to go to a frat or something if they’re into that. If you’re not into partying you can find plenty of quiet time in Orchard Hill. </p>
<p>Central has frequent parties and its stonercity and Southwest is just constant loud partying so I think those dorms are out of the question. Let me know if you need any more advice! There’s pro’s and con’s to each living area so you really just have to decide one and hope it works out well for you. </p>
<p>I really appreciate your response. It helped me quite a bit.</p>