Dorm life plays a big role in shaping the college experience at Southern Nazarene University. From closet space to lighting, students notice the little details that make a living space feel like home. To better understand what matters most, a survey of 18 students across campus compared features of Snowbarger and Bracken while also considering experiences from A.M. Hills, Chapman Apartments, and commuter life.
One of the first comparisons focused on closet space. 66 percent of students said they would prefer the larger, shared option of three closets for two people, while 34 percent preferred the balance of one closet per person. Interestingly, most women leaned toward the shared space–though that setup is found in Snowbarger, the all-men’s dorm.
Students also spoke strongly about decorations. Nearly 90 percent agreed that a decorated dorm feels more welcoming than one left plain. Many pointed out that Bracken tends to shine in this area, with its inviting, homely atmosphere.
Lighting was a unanimous decision. Every student preferred LED or alternative lighting over the standard off-white fixtures, with many noting that colorful lighting helps make the space feel brighter and more personal.
When it came to layout, opinions were nearly split. Bracken’s four-room “cubbie” style edged out Snow’s hallway layout by only one vote. Flooring received a similar divide, with 58 percent choosing tile over carpet, though students noted that rugs help make any space cozy.
Perhaps the clearest preference came with bathrooms. 94 percent of students said they would rather have Bracken’s private in-room bathrooms than Snow’s communal set-up. For many, the choice came down to convenience and cleanliness.
Of course, housing at SNU goes beyond Snow and Bracken halls. Hills, the news dorm, offers suite-style living with four or eight-person units that include kitchens and living spaces. Chapman Apartments provide another option for upperclassmen, with full kitchens, bedrooms, and living areas–though availability is limited.
When all categories were considered, Bracken finished slightly ahead, with students favoring its features in four areas compared to Snow’s three. Still, each dorm has qualities that students value, showing that “the best dorm” often comes down to individual preferences.
Photo by: Austyn Knight