La Maison Française

Residence Information

Residence Type: Self-Op

House Size: 45 residents

Theme/Program Name: French Language & Culture

House Description

La Maison Française is an undergraduate residence that serves as a campus French center, hosting in-house seminars, social events, film series, readings, and lectures on French intellectual, artistic, and political life.

Composition of the house:

As a themed Row house that utilizes the pre-assignment system, French House tends to draw a more equal number of sophomores/juniors/seniors than other Row houses (which usually have a much more sophomore/senior heavy resident population). Furthermore, draw groups are smaller (because not as many people will be able to draw in), creating the potential for a great environment without large draw group cliques. That being said, French House traditionally has a high percentage of returning residents who help to maintain the culture and spirit of the house. Finally, since French House is a relatively small house, the staff to resident ratio is larger than that of other Row Houses, which generates a different staff-resident dynamic.

Social environment:

The social atmosphere/culture of French House could be likened to alternative music in that it is not one of the larger, more "mainstream" Row Houses (e.g. Bob), but is still pretty popular. We throw two Cafe Nights per quarter; Cafe Nights are widely attended campus parties that are unique in the jazz band/cafe area and in the type of dance music (electronic/techno) played on the dance floor. Somehow, we draw some pretty quirky residents each year who bring a diverse set of interests, talents, and personalities to the house environment. Additionally, priority requirements have resulted in a large proportion of French-speakers and alumni of the Paris program in the house, and consequently, conversations are often peppered with "Franglais." 

Other social events include a retreat and special dinner each quarter, French Table dinners each Monday, and other French-themed social events arranged by our theme associates. Our chef is also one of the most treasured "aspects" of the house: not only does he create great food for us, he really gets to know a lot of the residents, with whom he jokes around, and is more than willing to cater to special dietary needs, allergies, etc.