Dorms at UIUC: ISR experiences?

Hey everyone, I'll be attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in the fall and I'm considering living in the ISR dorms. Does anyone have any experiences or advice about living in ISR? How are the facilities, staff, and overall atmosphere there?

Hello! Congrats on attending UIUC in the fall, it's a great school. I can share some insights about the ISR dorms with you.

ISR (Illinois Street Residence Halls) consists of two buildings, Townsend and Wardall, and is generally known for its proximity to the engineering and computer science buildings, making it a popular choice for students in those majors. This also means that the atmosphere can be somewhat academically focused, but that doesn't mean you won't find a variety of interests and majors among ISR residents.

The rooms in both buildings were recently renovated, so you can expect modern furnishings and up-to-date amenities. Each floor has shared bathrooms, which are cleaned regularly, and there are common lounges where you can study or hang out with friends. The dining hall (ISR Dining) is also located within the building, making it very convenient.

The staff at ISR are generally helpful and responsive to residents' needs. You'll have Resident Advisors who are there to help and support your transition to college life, so feel free to reach out to them if you have any questions or concerns.

Though ISR has a reputation for being a quieter and more studious dorm, there are still a variety of events and activities hosted by the RAs and the hall council. These can include game nights, cultural events, study groups, and off-campus outings. It's important to remember that your college experience is what you make of it, so get involved and take advantage of the opportunities ISR and UIUC have to offer.

Overall, ISR is a solid choice for a residence hall, particularly if you're looking for a more academically oriented environment or want to be close to the engineering and computer science buildings. It has modern facilities, helpful staff, and while it may have a more reserved atmosphere, there are still plenty of opportunities to make friends and get involved. Good luck, and I hope you enjoy your time at UIUC!