Fisk House
In the heart of Boston University’s campus, nestled in a quiet brownstone along Bay State Road, is a home unlike any other—Fisk House. This three-story residence houses women graduate students at BU and is proudly supported by the BU Women’s Guild. Fisk House was first established by the BU Women’s Council in 1933 and moved to a renovated Bay State Road brownstone in 2020 where 16 students currently reside. It is an honor for the BU Women’s Guild to continue this legacy of supporting graduate student women.
The Fisk House is a special residential community in the heart of the Boston University campus. Two factors — substantial housing support and the brownstone’s location on campus — make living in Boston much more affordable for these graduate students. Beyond that, the special community that the residents have created in their shared living space including a communal kitchen and living room has led to the establishment of strong support networks and enduring friendships. As most residents are either new to the Boston area or new to the U.S., Fisk House is their first opportunity to connect with other graduate students and find support.
The many benefits of living at Fisk House are clear in the heartwarming stories shared by the residents at BUWG community events. They are stories of support, solidarity and friendship, all testimony to the unique place that is Fisk House.
Sanaz Bagheri
MFA in Theatre Production Management, Class of 2026
“Living at Fisk House has allowed me to form invaluable friendships with people from different cultures—some, like me, who are far from home, and others who are American. This experience has helped me adjust to my new life, giving me a broader perspective on how beautiful humanity is in all its diversity.”
Purnima Sainani
Doctorate of Dental Medicine, graduating class of 2028
“Moving to a new country on my own at 21 was a daunting step, but Fisk House gave me not just a place to live, but a family and support system. The friendships I made here have enriched my life beyond measure, and I carry this sense of community with me every day.”
Sophie,
DMA candidate in the Music Education, College of Fine Arts, Class of 2026
“Living at Fisk House has taken a lot of financial strain off of me so that I can focus on this research and advocacy, and I plan to use this opportunity to take on policy advocacy work.”
Gracie Anderson
Occupational Therapy, Summer 2026
“Living at Fisk House has been a wonderful opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds. The kindness and warmth of everyone here have made my grad school experience feel more supportive and uplifting.”
Hannah Mefferd
Master’s in International Affairs, Class of 2026
“Fisk House has afforded me the opportunity to focus on my studies and not worry about things such as monthly housing payments. This is a huge privilege and one that I hope to pay forward during my time here at BU and after.”
Jennifer Madu,
School of Public Health. Class of 2026
“It feels like a second home, providing a sense of security and belonging. The diversity and sisterhood within the house have been incredibly supportive, helping me navigate tough times and easing any worries I may have.”
The stories shared by Fisk House residents are more than just reflections of gratitude—they are powerful reminders of what community can make possible. Through the support of the BU Women’s Guild and the vision of those who came before, Fisk House continues to be a place where women scholars are empowered not only to pursue their academic goals, but also to find friendship, solidarity, and a sense of home.
As each resident moves forward in her journey, the spirit of Fisk House travels with her—a testament to the enduring impact of a community built on care, connection, and shared purpose.
Read more about our Fisk House residents.
Fisk House Co-chairs
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