Housing Options

At Union College residence halls are environments that promote life skills and belonging. Life at Union is full of options, including where you call home. We offer a variety of residence halls, all an easy walk to everything you need on campus – classrooms, labs, a library, a campus center, arts and athletic facilities, and places to eat. We are also a short distance from experiences downtown Schenectady's many dining, shopping, and entertainment venues.

Students are eligible to live in specific community halls based on their status as either a first-year student or an upper-class student and their affiliation with specific campus organizations. All first-year and transfer students live in first-year designated communities with each roommate of their choice or roommates they were matched with by the Res-Ed & Housing department. After a student's first year, housing is determined by seniority/class status. The Office of Residential Education & Housing strongly encourages students and families to explore all residential options on campus to gain insight into potential residential options.

First-Year Housing

Living in an all-first-year college student residence hall can significantly enhance the college experience for new students. It fosters a sense of community by bringing together individuals who are all navigating similar challenges, such as adjusting to academic demands, building new friendships, and becoming familiar with campus life.

This shared environment creates a supportive atmosphere where students can relate to one another and form bonds more easily. Additionally, our residence halls designed specifically for first-year students offer tailored programs and resources, such as peer mentorship and social events, to aid in their personal and academic transition. Being surrounded by peers in the same stage of their college journey provides a unique opportunity for our students to grow together and develop a strong foundation for success in the years ahead. Interested in learning more about our first-year communities? View our first-year residence halls.

Upperclass Housing

Living in an upper-class community in a college residences offers a unique and valuable experience for students who have already navigated their first year and are seeking a more mature and independent living environment. These communities often provide a quieter, more focused atmosphere conducive to academic growth and personal development. With residents who have already acclimated to college life, students can benefit from the shared wisdom and experiences of their peers, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages leadership and mentorship. Upperclass communities also offer more opportunities for personal autonomy, with increased privacy and responsibility, helping students transition from the structured support of their first year to greater independence. This living arrangement supports the continued development of critical life skills, including time management, communication, and problem-solving, as students prepare for life beyond college.