Living on Campus: A Good Idea?
October 25th, 2009 by Bob RomeYour college years are unique in and of themselves, but where you decide to live during this time goes a long way towards defining your experience. For some of you, living on or off campus is a clear-cut decision, while others may not be so clear on where their heart lies. Below are some things for you to consider while trying to decide where to live:
1. What are the price differences? At first glance, it may look as if opting to live off-campus is the less expensive way to go. But don't forget that apartment living (or a house rental) has more costs involved than the monthly rent. You'll have electric, gas and cable bills to pay and a kitchen to stock. And then there's the additional cost of transportation (and parking) to and from your classes every day.
2. How will my mailing address impact my social life? A lot. If you choose to life away from campus, chances are, you'll also be somewhat removed from the spontaneity of the social life in the heart of the university. For some students, that could be a good thing, while others would miss the energy involved in living among other like-minded people. You'll need to ask yourself if you are the type of person who requires privacy and down time. Apartment living would provide more space when it comes to bathrooms and sleeping arrangements, but would likely lack in the social department.
3. Study support: Living on campus definitely has benefits when it comes to studying. Most campus libraries never close, in fact. For students who like to study the night away, there's a safe and quiet place to do so. Living on campus also provides ample opportunities to meet with study groups or attend extra lectures, and so on. If you need to take a bus or drive into the heart of the scholastic activities, bad weather could prevent you from doing so.
4. What do I want from my college experience? To you, could be a necessary time in life to carve out a better future for yourself. Or, you could be in search of four additional years to transition from child to adult. Can you see how these two types of students would differ greatly in their choice of living arrangements? College offers a rare time in life when a student usually lives away from home for the first time. Where you live will have an enormous impact on how those years play out for you.
If after you carefully consider your options you still aren't clear whether you should live in university housing or an off-campus apartment, most college towns offer an alternative. Look for apartments or houses that are located as close to the heart of the university as possible and sign only a one-year lease. Chances are next year you'll be certain which option is best for you.
Bob Rome is a higher education writer and part time university instructor. He has contributed to websites on programs and in education.
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