Students who share a special interest often room together in a specific hall. Several of these groups reside in Lafayette's newest residence - Keefe Hall. Designed to promote a distinctive integration of living and learning, the building is particularly well-suited for living groups centered on academic or cocurricular interests. Current ones include First-Year Wellness House, French/German House, Brothers of Lafayette, Dry Surfers (technology interest), and the Volunteer Floor.

There are also Arts Houses for students involved in the arts; PT Farinon House and Conway House for first-year students who choose an academically focused residential environment; and Ramer Hall, designed specifically to house a special-interest group on each of three floors. The groups include CHANCE (Creating Harmony and Necessary Cultural Equality) and Justice, Equality and Ecology.

McKelvy Scholars

Each year about 20 students are invited to live together in the McKelvy House, a 19th-century stone mansion. They come from all majors and from different parts of the country. What they have in common is their desire to be with other students who thrive on thinking and talking about things beyond their daily activities. It is a residential environment in which intellectual discourse is the centerpiece. The faculty resident is Chawne Kimber, assistant professor of mathematics.

Substance-free living

HAVEN, an organization dedicated to the ideals of substance-free living, is located in Farber Hall. Students who are interested in this lifestyle also may choose a wellness option in Watson Hall.