Does anyone know if upper years are put into particular residences, some more than others?

I don't think they're put in particular residences, but most upper years prefer to live alone so they'll most likely be put into single rooms. Then again, I've gotten the same res two years in a row. If I find out I'm in the same res again, I'll give you a definitive answer. Three times out of all the possible residences on campus can't be a coincidence :'(.

Was the residence you got your first choice on your application though?

Hm, yes I wanted a single as my first choice for 3rd year and they gave it to me (phew).