Naturally, everyone is overly-protective of their accommodation, it marks the first chapter of your University experience and freedom. But which dorms at Sussex are the best? After living on campus during your first year, and picking up on rumours or gossip that emerge over campus, you start to get an idea of whats what.  Here is the ultimate ranking of freshman Dorms at Sussex From swanky Swanborough to questionable Park Village…

1. Northfield

Living in Northfield for my first year (definitely not bias) was a dream Freshman Dorm. Less pricy than Swanborough (although admittedly not far behind) but with larger communal (PERFECT for pre-drinks) spaces and a clear view of the South Downs, it’s a no brainer. While you’ll probably be met with a condescending ‘roll eyes’ when revealing your chosen dorm, you’re hosting of huge flat parties will compensate.

2. Lewes Court

An average location, freshman dorm set-up and exterior, but a social hub nonetheless. As a block of flats a small community thrives, so if you’re not so lucky with your own flatmates your sure to find some next door.

While the location sets you away from the ‘academic hub’ (getting up for that 9am means 10 mins less sleep, risky) you’re equal distance from the South Downs. A happy medium.

3. East Slope

If you find yourself in search of the ‘party hub on a budget’, look no further than East Slope Freshman Dorms. With a guaranteed house party every night, it’s haven to any student deep in their over-draft but looking for social relief. As the cheapest accommodation on campus, it’s also one of the most popular (if you can cope with sharing the singular bathroom and shower facilities between 12 people).

4. Brighthelm

Less of a Freshman dorm and more of a ‘home from home’, Brighthelm provides all the home comforts that you can’t get anywhere else. Although it’s short of ‘party vibes’ it invites those who are past these days, and instead allows for regular laundry days (with your OWN washing machine… amazing) and cups of tea on your private balcony. I mean look at it.

5. Swanborough

Boujee, over-priced ‘university luxury’: Swanborough. If your parents can fund your way through uni and you can survive the endless torment you’ll most likely receive from East Slope inhabitants, then go ahead. Admittedly, the 10 second walk to co-op eases the high-priced rent, but does no favours for your bank balance (but who cares when mum and dad can cover it).

6. Stanmer Court

“Sorry, where?”

It’s hard to remember Stanmer exists being right next to the station on the outskirts of campus. After thinking for the best of two years it wasn’t actually part of the campus, I was shocked to learn otherwise. Unfortunately, there is little to redeem its poor location and lack of presence.

I’ve got nothing. For 3 months out of the year it has flowers?

7. Park Village

Arguably (not really) the worst accommodation on campus. sigh. It’s one you have to see for your own eyes to believe it. It’s the dorms no one chooses, instead it’s thrusted upon the unfortunate souls who didn’t quite hand their application in fast enough. With no kitchen table and enough room to fit 2 out of the 11 people you’re living with in the kitchen at a time, the corridor becomes the ‘social area’ for eating, chatting, and pre-drinking. Infested with various species of insects and bugs (it tends to alternate as the terms do so) and a reluctant (often non existent) cleaner, hygiene isn’t a top priority and everyone seems to be ill. all. the. time.

Whether it’s a busy social life you’re after, or instead, comfortable living, Sussex can tailor to that with its huge variety of Freshman Dorms. While it’s basically assumed we’re going to have to lower our standards when living as a student (especially if you’re on a budget)- it’s not exactly 5 stars worthy – the living standards aren’t half bad.

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