<p>The way I made sure I would get into Orchard Hill was to sign up for one of the RAPs that were based there. They also offer a few “Living and Learning Communities” based there, which may be another option for you. I’m thinking, for example, that if you were interested in the engineering RAP, you may like the “Science and Discovery” program. </p>
<p>Check here:
[UMass</a> Amherst - Housing and Residence Life: Orchard Hill Residential Area](<a href=“http://www.housing.umass.edu/reshalls/orchard.html]UMass”>http://www.housing.umass.edu/reshalls/orchard.html)</p>
<p>I know you say you aren’t interested in the RAPs, but maybe one of the other living programs would work for you, and it would help make sure you get assigned to the area you want. </p>
<p>I loved Orchard Hill. I also liked parts of Central - the smaller buildings were very cool, but Van Meter was huge, and really not my thing. Northeast tends to be a bit quiet, if you like that. Those were probably my three fave areas, in order. </p>
<p>If you did get assigned to Central, that might not be so bad. If you like Orchard Hill, there’s a lot about Central that’s similar, so you may like it very much as well.</p>