Danielsen Hall at Boston University (BU): An Insider's Guide is one of the residence options at Boston University (BU) in Boston, Massachusetts. This guide covers what current and former BU students actually experience living here—including the details that don't appear in official housing descriptions.

Danielsen Hall is a beloved on-campus residence at Boston University (BU), nestled right along the vibrant Comm Ave corridor. As one of the university's oldest and most iconic dorms, Danielsen offers students a glimpse into BU's storied past while providing modern amenities and a thriving community.

Built in 1939, Danielsen Hall is a classic example of Georgian Revival architecture, with its distinctive brick façade and columned entryway. The dorm is named after Norwegian-American philanthropist Olav Danielsen, who donated funds for its construction. Today, Danielsen remains a highly sought-after housing option, home to over 300 undergraduate students each year.

From its prime location to its unique character and spirited community, there's a lot that makes Danielsen Hall a special place to live on the BU campus. Let's dive into the details to see if this historic residence might be the right fit for you.

One of Danielsen Hall's biggest draws is its unbeatable location right on the Comm Ave corridor. As part of BU's central campus, Danielsen is just steps away from key academic buildings, dining halls, and student hubs like the George Sherman Union (GSU).

Students living in Danielsen have easy access to the Green Line's B branch, with the BU Central and BU West T stops right outside the dorm. This makes it a breeze to get around campus and explore the rest of Boston. The dorm is also conveniently located near major shopping and dining destinations along Comm Ave, like the Target and Chipotle.

With its prime spot in the heart of campus, Danielsen Hall provides residents with the ultimate in convenience and community. You'll be right in the middle of the BU action, without having to travel far for your daily needs.

Despite its vintage exterior, the interior of Danielsen Hall has been thoughtfully updated over the years to provide students with comfortable, contemporary living spaces. Each double-occupancy room comes equipped with the essentials, including:

• Twin XL beds
• Desks and chairs
• Dressers and closets
• High-speed internet
• Cable TV

Students also have access to several communal lounges, study areas, and laundry facilities throughout the dorm. The building's grand lobby features cozy seating and a fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

One of the standout amenities in Danielsen is the spacious, well-equipped kitchen on the first floor. Residents can prepare home-cooked meals here, providing a nice break from the dining hall fare. The kitchen is a popular gathering spot for students to socialize and bond over shared meals.

While Danielsen maintains its historic charm, the dorm offers the modern conveniences and comforts that today's students expect. It's a harmonious blend of old and new that helps make residential life here so appealing.

What really sets Danielsen Hall apart is the strong sense of community that permeates the dorm. As one of BU's smaller, more intimate residences, Danielsen fosters a close-knit environment where everyone tends to know each other.

'The community here is unparalleled,' says Sarah, a current Danielsen resident. 'Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. It really feels like a home away from home.'

Due to its comparatively petite size, Danielsen avoids the impersonal, anonymous vibe that can sometimes characterize large freshman dorms. Instead, students here develop meaningful connections with their floor-mates and the Resident Assistants (RAs) who help facilitate community-building events.

Danielsen's community spirit also manifests in the dorm's many beloved traditions. Each year, residents eagerly anticipate the annual Danielsen Formal, where students dress up and celebrate the close-knit bonds they've formed. The dorm also hosts frequent social gatherings, game nights, and other fun activities that bring everyone together.

'Being a part of the Danielsen community has been such a highlight of my BU experience,' shares Jenna, a recent Danielsen alum. 'The connections I made here have lasted well beyond my time in the dorm.'

While Danielsen Hall offers an unparalleled on-campus living experience, there are a few key factors to weigh when deciding if this dorm is the right fit for you:

Size: As one of BU's smaller residences, Danielsen can feel quite cozy - which some students love, but others may find claustrophobic. The intimate community vibe isn't for everyone.

Age: Danielsen's vintage architecture and historic character are part of its charm, but the dorm's age also means the rooms and amenities may not be as modern as newer BU housing options.

Location: Danielsen's prime Comm Ave location is incredibly convenient, but the constant foot traffic and street noise can be disruptive for light sleepers.

Dining: While Danielsen has a fully equipped kitchen, there are no on-site dining halls. Residents will need to walk to Marciano Commons or other campus eateries for meals.

Overall, Danielsen Hall provides a uniquely immersive BU experience with its historic setting, tight-knit community, and unbeatable location. But the dorm's intimate size and vintage character won't appeal to every student's preferences. Carefully weigh the pros and cons to see if Danielsen is the right housing choice for you.

Securing a spot in Danielsen Hall is a highly sought-after goal for many BU students. As an in-demand dorm, Danielsen fills up quickly each year during the housing application process.

The best way to increase your chances of landing a spot in Danielsen is to submit your housing application as early as possible. BU begins accepting housing deposits and preferences in the spring semester, so be sure to get your application in as soon as the portal opens.

When filling out your housing preferences, rank Danielsen Hall at the top of your list. You can also indicate that you're interested in being part of the Danielsen community in the 'Additional Comments' section.

While there's no guarantee you'll secure a spot in this popular dorm, submitting your application early and expressing your strong interest in Danielsen can go a long way. Good luck in the housing lottery! Let me know if you have any other questions.

Many first-year BU students don't expect how much the social dynamics of their dorm affect their entire freshman experience. Danielsen Hall at Boston University (BU): An Insider's Guide has its own distinct culture that takes a few weeks to understand—from floor traditions to unwritten rules about common spaces.