Students can now apply to live in theme cottages and floors for the Fall 2024 semester. Theme houses are aimed at fostering unique communities around shared interests. House themes may focus on mindfulness, community engagement or outdoor activities.  

“It’s a great opportunity to live with people with a common interest,” said Gretchen Hirschfeld ’25, a member of the POWER House. “Having a common interest really brings people together in a tight-knit way. It’s always great to come home knowing that you have that support.” The POWER House centers around finding ways to be active and is dedicated to living a healthy lifestyle.  

Hirschfeld applied to the house for the people and the welcoming environment. “Everyone has a pretty positive outlook on life, and it just inspires me to be a better person,” she said.  

It is an exciting time for students currently living in theme houses, as well. “Theme house application season is always such an exciting time!” said Habitat for Humanity Theme Coordinator Madyson McCarthy ’25. “I love seeing each of the houses actively highlight their missions and promote inclusivity on SLU’s campus.”  

Residential Coordinator Sharon Rodriguez emphasizes the unique experience of theme living. For her, theme living is about finding people who love the same activities and who have the same passions and interests. 

This week, themes had the opportunity to share their missions at Theme 101. Wednesday evening, theme communities tabled in the Winston Room for a club-fair-style event. Themes used this time to promote their communities and the events they put on. For those unable to attend, most applications can be found on Involve — formerly known as Presence — or at each theme’s house.  

Rodriguez highlights that themes also change over time. “Themes are ever-evolving, in not just their mission, but also with the activities they do,” Rodriguez says. Themes may center around a common interest, but they are always starting new traditions around campus.  

Rodriguez recommends students look into theme living this application season. “It puts you out there. Not just within the SLU community, but with the larger community,” she concludes. “There aren’t that many places around St. Lawrence where you get to have that feeling and get to contribute to the community as an organization.”