With theme house applications in full swing there has been a lot of talk about all of the theme houses- which themes have the most fun, which themes have the nicest house, which themes work the hardest and most importantly which theme would I want to live in? From an outsider point of view, it can be hard to fully understand the interworking of all these houses and what it takes to make sure their respected “themes” are providing for the community while all living and working together.
St. Lawrence has over ten university owned theme houses ranging from those focused on the outdoors and exercise, art and music, social justice, sustainability and more. These are all pretty unique to SLU, it’s not everywhere that you can live in an old, renovated house, which may or may not have a leaking roof, with a bunch of people who have similar passions.
Theme houses can be an awesome living environment, in the words of Liz Hart ’23 who lives in the L.I.G.H.T house, a theme house based upon intentional living and mindfulness, “the community is the best part. It’s really nice to live with like-minded people and vibe.” In addition to the sense of community, theme houses can also be very rewarding, says Matt White ’24 who lives in the L.I.G.H.T house. “It’s great experience running an organization,” said White. Eli Idec ’22 who lives in the Outing Club, a house which leads their peers on trips in the outdoors, agreed. “It’s a privilege to be able to lead trips for my peers outside. It’s a truly amazing thing.”
Theme houses do a lot for the campus community whether it’s making dinners for peers, holding meditations, guiding trips, hosting workshops, discussions, and events. A few select themes also provide outside of the campus community into the greater Canton community and beyond. Hosting these events and workshops, however, comes with its fair share of work. Matt White ’23 said, “sometimes there’s a lack of communication on who’s doing what and it’s difficult to make sure everything gets done.” Liv Erwich ’22 who lives in the Java House, which runs an on-campus music venue, agreed. “There is a bit of a time commitment and behind-the-scenes work that goes into running events; like these shows don’t just happen magically,” he said.
It can also be difficult living with many people in one house states Liz Hart ’22, “One of the more challenging things about living in theme houses is all keeping the shared spaces clean. Not everyone has the same standard of cleanliness and sometimes this can pose problems.” Liv Erwich agreed, saying his least favorite part about living in a theme house was “messy housemates.”
Although theme houses come with their fair share of challenges and work, when asked if they regretted living in their respected house the answer was unanimous “no.” Theme house applications may be over but there are still limitless ways get involved with these houses and the many clubs and events that they host. Just because you don’t live in a theme house doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of all they have to offer.