IDEAS Floor in Raoul Hall

In Fall 2026, the IDEAS Fellowship will launch a brand-new first-year themed floor in Raoul Hall. The IDEAS themed floor is more than a residence hall; it’s a living laboratory for first-year students who want to build a meaningful intellectual community and share in the exciting journey of self-discovery that college makes possible. 

Located in Raoul Hall, the IDEAS floor transforms everyday dorm life into an ongoing dialogue, where first-year students connect what they are learning in the classroom with the experiences that are shaping them as people. Inspired by the spirit of the IDEAS Fellowship (Interdisciplinary Exploration and Scholarship), a central program of the Institute for the Liberal Arts (ILA), this community brings together first-year students from any major who are passionate about thinking across disciplines and integrating their liberal arts education through shared, community-based learning.

The floor's activities will be designed and facilitated by Resident Advisor, Claire Dokko, and two Sophomore Advisors, Alejandro Arriaga and Chad Himes, all of whom are current IDEAS Fellows.  First-year students on the IDEAS floor will be invited to events hosted by the Interdisciplinary Studies and American Studies programs, such as our biweekly Crafting Community series. They will also be invited to attend IDEAS Fellowship events and build community with faculty, staff, and students within the ILA.