The University of California, Riverside (UCR) is a public research university in Riverside, California.

There are 4 dorms that are available to freshmen: Aberdeen-Inverness (AI), Dundee, Pentland Hills, and Lothian (East and West). Lothian and AI are your typical dorms, Pentland is a suite-style, and Dundee is similar to a hotel. Dundee and Lothian have their own dining halls which is a plus. Glen Mor and North District are popular on-campus apartment options for second-years and up. Falkirk, The Plaza, and Bannockburn are relatively inexpensive apartments but do not come with furniture. Stonehaven is a gated community.

Pentland Hills offers a unique dorm experience with private bathrooms shared among a small number of hallmates, ensuring a higher level of cleanliness and privacy. The dorm's suite-style layout fosters a more secluded environment, making it ideal for students who prefer a quieter living space. Residents appreciate the cozy and social lounge areas equipped with kitchen amenities, promoting interaction among peers. While some find the rooms to be on the smaller side, the community spirit and well-maintained facilities enhance the overall living experience. With convenient access to dining halls and campus buildings, Pentland Hills provides a balance between social engagement and personal space, creating a comfortable transition for incoming students.

East Lothian is a highly recommended dorm on campus, favored for its spacious and well-maintained rooms. With four floors including halls D, E, and F, this dorm offers both elevators and staircases. The rooms feature built-in closets, ample storage space, and customizable amenities like adjustable thermostats. The dorm's proximity to the Lothian Dining Hall, Starbucks, and the Orbach Library adds to its convenience. Residents appreciate the controlled AC, communal study and recreational rooms, and relatively clean bathrooms. Despite being a bit far from the main campus, East Lothian remains a popular choice for its comfortable and cozy vibes, making it a great option for students seeking a balance between study and social life.

Dundee dormitory at Riverside is a modern and new residence hall that offers a hotel-like experience to its students. The rooms are well-maintained with a good amount of space, although storage can be limited for some. Despite the small size, the bathrooms are a standout feature, known for their cleanliness and modern design. The dorm is equipped with top-notch facilities such as study rooms on every floor, a gym, and a water filling station nearby. While some students find the dorm less social than others, the amenities like AC control, laundry rooms, and proximity to the dining hall make it a desirable choice. However, there are occasional issues with bathroom cleanliness and maintenance, as well as noise disturbances in certain areas of the building. Overall, Dundee offers a comfortable and convenient living space for students at Riverside, standing out as one of the best residences on campus.

Aberdeen-Inverness, the oldest dorm on campus, is known for its central location near the gym and dining hall, providing convenience for students. While some residents appreciate the social atmosphere and spacious rooms in comparison to other dorms, there are mixed reviews about the outdated facilities and cleanliness. The communal bathrooms can be a point of contention, as they tend to get messy and may require shared responsibility for upkeep. Despite the older building and cramped living quarters in triple rooms, many students found the experience at Aberdeen-Inverness to be memorable due to the opportunities for socializing and making new friends. Additionally, the dorm offers proximity to campus, making it an attractive choice for those looking for convenience and a vibrant community atmosphere.

West Lothian dormitory at UCR is a mixed bag, offering both positive and negative aspects according to student reviews. The dorm provides spacious storage under the beds and ample closet space, though the beds are quite high. It boasts communal areas like a dining hall, Starbucks nearby, piano and meditation rooms, and a courtyard. However, the thin walls and doors can be a drawback, and students have no control over the thermostat. The location is convenient for accessing campus facilities but may have Wi-Fi issues for those living farther from the floor. The social atmosphere is a highlight, making it easy to forge friendships. On the downside, the outdated facilities and lack of temperature control can be inconvenient. The communal bathrooms can also be a concern if hygiene standards are not maintained. Overall, West Lothian offers a lively environment with proximity to dining options and study spaces, but its age and maintenance issues may deter some residents.

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Pentland Hills

East Lothian

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West Lothian

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