Definition
A living-learning community where students reside together and participate in academic programming, social events, and residential traditions. Yale does it with centuries of prestige; most state schools do it with mandatory freshman dorms and theme floors nobody asked for.
Example Usage
Living in the sustainability-themed residential college meant attending exactly one recycling workshop before everyone ignored the green initiatives.
Origin
Based on British collegiate university models (Oxford, Cambridge), adopted by American institutions in the 20th century
Fun Fact
Research shows residential college students have higher retention rates and report better college experiences, though this may simply reflect selection bias toward students who can afford campus housing.
Related Terms
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