<p>Residential colleges are pretty much a way for students to truly immerse themselves in the social life of their school. Each school has a variety of residential colleges, and each one has different social activities. Since you’re pretty much around students all the time, you’re kind of forced to interact with them and get to know people. They’re surefire way to make friends, and you don’t have to deal with the hassle of finding housing if you live too far away, since the school usually offers it to you for the first two years. On another note: living in the dorms is great location-wise, because you’re close to all your classes.</p>
<p>Most schools (not sure about Yale) offers housing for the first two years on campus, and then you move into school affiliated apartments afterward. Being affiliated with the school doesn’t mean you’re forced to be on campus for all four years. </p>
<p>Downside to residential colleges: roommates. The school chooses a roommate for you, based on both of your matching personal interests; however, that doesn’t guarantee you two will become best buddies (keep in mind you’re sharing a ROOM with this person, and this room is probably smaller than most people’s bathrooms). Also, at the school I want to apply to (UCSD) room and board adds an additional 9000 dollars to the cost of my education. You may be able to stay in some apartments nearby that are cheaper. </p>
<p>Keep in mind, dorms are optional.</p>