Your college years are unique in and of themselves, but where you decide to live during this time goes a long way towards defining your
college 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. Price comparisons: While living on campus might seem more expensive at first, there are other costs to consider when renting an off-campus apartment or house to share with other students. For starters, there's a gas, electric and cable bill that will roll around every month. Don't forget the cost of eating, as well. While meal plans for on-campus cafeterias might lead to sticker shock, have you been to a supermarket lately? If you life off campus, you'll have a kitchen to stock, as well. One more thing to think about is the cost of getting to and from classes every day. If you drive, there are gas and parking costs as well.
2. Social activities: While some of you aren't going to college to achieve a more active social life, others are looking forward to their first dose of independence. Living on campus means living among other like-minded people all at a similar stage in life. There's a certain energy involved that leads to spontaneity. Some students want to separate themselves from any temptation that might interfere with their studies by living off campus. Those who do enjoy more privacy in the bathroom and with regards to sleeping arrangements. Even a private phone conversation can be hard to come by at times for dorm residents. The key here is to really give some thought to the kind of person you are and what your personal needs are.
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. The college experience. As important as logistics such as cost and your studies, the overall experience of going to
college is once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. While you will certainly have the chance to live at home or in an apartment later in life, the precious few years in college offer a thriving community of like-minded people all in a similar stage in life. This is the time for you to think hard and decide how important it is for you personally to immerse yourself among them.
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.
More Information:
Bob Rome is a higher education writer and part time university instructor. He has contributed to websites on
online degree programs and
online degrees in education.
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