Milton Daniel Hall fosters a tight-knit community focused on friendly competition and academic success.

Many TCU students find the transition to college stressful, but honors students face added pressures, according to first-year Milton Daniel resident and engineering major Wills Black. 

Students in the John V. Roach Honors College are required to fulfill curriculum requirements and maintain a certain GPA to remain honors students. 

“[Milton] does have a more competitive atmosphere just because people here hold a higher standard for themselves,” said Black.

In some cases, these high standards can have adverse effects on students.

Black said he has witnessed “many instances where people are upset by grades.”

Being surrounded by other similar students makes it difficult not to compare one’s academic standing. The preconceived notions about the culture of the Honors College can also add pressure to live up to expectations. 

“When people find out I live in Milton, [they] assume that I am smart and have good study habits,” said Black. 

Milton Daniel resident assistants such as Geo Martinez work hard to defy negative stereotypes about the dorm and focus on keeping students relaxed and positive.

Martinez, a sophomore nursing major, described some of the unique aspects and traditions of Milton Daniel such as the annual Milton Cup, Yule Ball and Wide-Open Wednesdays, or WOW. 

WOW takes place each week and allows RAs to get to know their residents in a fun environment. The RAs go between dorm rooms giving out snacks and candy while playing music through the halls.

“Residents are encouraged to represent their wing and just have fun participating in non-academic activities,” said Martinez. “The residents and the staff make Milton a truly special place on campus.”

While Milton is not the perfect fit for every student, members of the Honors College strive to make the dorm a welcoming place on TCU’s campus.