As I wrote about last year, I lived in Pardee Tower as a Freshman. I have so many fond memories of this building and met so many great people during my year living on the eighth floor (AKA the Pardee Penthouse!). Sometimes I wish I could go back! It was so close to everything. Pardee is located right on McCarthy Quad, where so many fun things take place like Conquest and even Ultimate Frisbee pick-up games. Not to mention plenty of space to lie down on the grass to read a book, taking advantage of the impeccable Southern California weather (I did this often!).
A concert on McCarthy Quad during my Freshman year.
Just across the quad is Leavey Library (open 24/7 and still my favorite place to study). One building over is Trojan Grounds (now a Starbucks franchise), and 20 more steps from that is EVK Dining Hall— home of the best breakfast on campus.
McCarthy Quad from behind the Leavey Library fountain (Pardee is to the left).
What else was great about Pardee? There were about 40 freshmen per floor, so it felt like I got to meet so many great people. As a senior I’m still great friends with many of them! I never felt like I was missing out on anything that happened on campus.
Some of the Pardee Penthouse crew!
Pardee was the perfect place for me– I enjoyed living in a traditional dorm room (with a roommate, a shared bathroom, a long hallway, and a Residential Advisor) because I felt like I had a true college experience. Even though I’m a natural introvert, I felt comfortable here. Whenever I was pushed outside my comfort zone, I could always catch up on my peace and quiet.
Pardee Tower!! (The entrance has been renovated slightly since this was taken).
Pardee Penthouse, thank you for the memories!
