Welcome to the beauty that is the University of Dayton's South Student Neighborhood. Also known as "The Ghetto" (but we won't even go there...), the student neighborhood consists of over 200 campus-owned houses, and it's the place everyone wants to be. At UD, living on campus all four years is the cool thing to do and very popular among students. If you're a freshman, visitor or just haven't had much experience in the student neighborhood, here are some tips for having the best time possible!
1. Have a squad.
This being said, just be aware that if you go out with a crew of 10+ people, everyone will know you're freshmen. But hey, the more, the merrier!
2. Know where you're going.
I didn't know my way around the neighborhood until well into my sophomore year, before that I just followed my friends around or used my GPS (embarrassing, right?). Do yourself and everyone you're with a favor and get a general idea of the street names and locations, it will be helpful in the long run.
3. Know the main houses and blocks.
Some particular houses have a name. For example, the Crack House, the Castle, and the Barn. And there are certain areas that will have more parties than others, like the 400 blocks of Stonemill and Kiefaber. Know where these places are, and you'll always be able to find something going on.
4. Don't crowd around houses.
The police WILL come and you WILL have to leave. Which leads me to my next point...
5. Don't walk around with open containers.
Trust me, you'll most likely be able to get another drink at the next party, it's not worth it.
6. Learn to love Natty Light.
This is most likely the only thing you'll be given at parties, and you can't really complain. It is seen as a nice gesture to offer someone a place on your porch and an ice cold Natural Light. It's either that or Jungle Juice, which is pretty questionable.
7. Have a safe place/person.
Whether it's your friend, roommate or a house that welcomes you, always have someone you can call if you need to.
8. Grab a bite to eat.
The DD's Sandwiches food truck is always in the middle on the student neighborhood on weekend nights. Because who wouldn't want a Mac and Cheese Wrap on the way home from a party at 2:30 in the morning?
9. Appreciate the sheet signs.
You will see sheet signs for various events, such as Welcome Weekend, Family Weekend, Greek Week, and the Commitment 2 Community Contest. They are one of my favorite things about college and a good way to bond with your roommates and give your house some personality.
10. Be respectful.
If someone is letting you into their house/on their porch and supplying you with beer and entertainment, the least you could do is be respectful by not destroying their house and leaving when they ask. From someone who has thrown a party in the student neighborhood, it's no easy task trying to get people out of your house at 3 a.m.
11. Enjoy — it's one of a kind!
The University of Dayton is one of the only colleges in America with its own student neighborhood, at least one that's more than just a couple of blocks. Seriously, people that don't go to UD look at me weird when I tell them I'm an upperclassman and still living on campus. This is the only time in your life you'll be able to experience and/or live in an entire neighborhood of your fellow college students just looking to have a good time. So kick back on a porch and enjoy the student neighborhood in all its glory.
