Dynamics of Santri Dormitory Life in the Formation of Social Character at Pesantren Raudlatul Hasanah

Abstract

Dormitory life is one of the main characteristics of pesantren education and plays an important role in shaping the social character of santri. A pesantren is not only a space for formal learning, but also a social environment in which santri learn to live independently, practise discipline, take responsibility, cooperate, respect differences, and build healthy social relationships. This study aims to analyze the dynamics of santri dormitory life in the formation of social character at Pesantren Ar-Raudlatul Hasanah. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving dormitory supervisors, musyrif, student administrators, and santri. Data analysis was carried out through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that dormitory life forms the social character of santri through daily routines, discipline habituation, interaction among santri, dormitory guidance, congregational worship activities, student organizations, and conflict resolution in collective life. The social characters formed include independence, responsibility, care, tolerance, cooperation, leadership, and the ability to manage conflict. However, this process also faces challenges, including differences in student personalities, routine fatigue, limited privacy, senior-junior relations, and interpersonal conflict. This study confirms that the pesantren dormitory functions as a social laboratory that educates santri through direct experience. Therefore, strengthening the dormitory guidance system, musyrif assistance, and continuous evaluation of dormitory life needs to be carried out sustainably.