Residence hall life is an iconic part of the college experience. Each University residence hall brings with it a set vibe, determined by location, LLCs, residents and more.
Wherever you choose to live on campus, The Daily Illini has curated a playlist to perfectly fit your residence hall’s vibe. Whether you’re a current residence hall resident or want a nostalgia trip back to your freshman year, sit back and listen to our song picks for each residence hall.
Allen/LAR
Welcome to Allen Hall and Lincoln Avenue Residence Halls, the residence halls notorious for not having any A/C during annual heat waves.
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Despite the poor ventilation and always broken laundry machines, Allen and LAR are the perfect living spaces if you’re looking for a quiet environment and flourishing living community. Allen is reputable for its large LGBTQ+ community and those who identify themselves as artists with creative minds.
Both residence halls are conveniently connected by a “secret tunnel” that’s always fun to explore. There is also a shared dining hall that is notorious for its “Breakfast for Dinner” meals every Tuesday night. Listen to the Allen/LAR playlist for a sneak peek at what residence hall life could be like in two of campus’ hottest — literally — and oldest buildings!
Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/75mWMJouHawFmqo3mPk6A3?si=e97df7f988f94001
Illinois Street Residence Halls
With newly renovated rooms, individual-use bathrooms, proximity to the Bardeen Quadrangle and direct access to the Illinois Street Dining Center, the rooms at ISR are highly sought after.
Despite these amenities, ISR double rooms are relatively small and hallways are flooded with bright fluorescent lights at all hours of the day, which can make the residences feel sterile and uncomfortable.
Additionally, ISR holds both the Honors and Innovation LLCs, which means many residents are high achieving and enrolled in advanced coursework which often leads to many assignments, lots of studying and stress.
ISR’s chaotic playlist matches the inner soundtrack of residents as they make their way through the school year.
Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/56QQK97VNOflB6x4i6evdw?si=ddff834a69ad454b
FAR/PAR
Given their status as the most isolated and introverted residence halls on campus, FAR and PAR are admittedly not the most coveted housing options at the University of Illinois.
Yet, the humble pair still have plenty to offer. Residents get convenient first access to bus routes and the close-knit community of the cultural and STEM LLCs, as well as views of tranquil nature spots like Illini Grove and the Arboretum.
Just like the aroma of delectable stir-fry from the PAR dining hall masks any lingering smells wafting out of FAR’s communal bathrooms, let this playlist soothe the pain of having all of your classes be a 20-plus minute walk away.
Ikenberry North (Barton, Lundgren, Hopkins, Nugent, Wassaja, Weston)
While not boasting extensive amenities, the residence halls of Ikenberry North undeniably shape one’s college experience. Situated conveniently close to Ikenberry Dining Hall, students enjoy easy access to pasta bars, pizza, sandwiches and a variety of other options on a daily basis.
Ikenberry North offers a blend of spirited social hubs and silent study environments. When a residence hall falls silent, you can bet students are out immersing themselves in the University’s lively party culture or hitting the books with unwavering focus.
Whether you’re wrapping up your Friday with a cozy night in or venturing out into the vibrant Greek life scene, this playlist is guaranteed to kickstart the weekend just as an Ike North resident would.
Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6H1DlHiTZPRTevpNeU22bL?si=6938125114a9453c
Ikenberry South (Bousfield, Scott, Snyder, Taft-Van Doren)
The Ikenberry South region, containing the residence halls of Bousfield, Scott, Snyder and Taft-Van Doren, is a calmer alternative to the hustle and bustle of the northern area where the halls echo sounds of nightlife and social antics all throughout the week.
Ikenberry South provides its residents with an opportunity to fill their lives with sports, whether through utilizing the various facilities of the ARC and the Six Pack or in the stands cheering on the Illini at Memorial Stadium or the State Farm Center.
The following playlist embodies the soundscape of Ike South from the excitement of the fall semester to the calmer and seemingly more difficult spring semester. Sounds of sports, calmness and excitement are enclosed within.
Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1P3orGqqiW0bk1Pxx5k7cz?si=69a6c86c1ab54cbc
