Easy Way to Happiness

You’ve done your campus visits, filled out your application forms and finally made your decision which university to attend . Don’t think your decisions are over just yet! One of the main influencers of how your college years will play out is where you decide to live. There are definite advantages to both on and off-campus living for you to consider. Below is a list of things to think about as you get started:

1. Costs involved. Living away from your campus is generally easier on the wallet when it comes to rent, but there are additional costs to consider. As an apartment resident, you’ll have utilities to pay and the costs of getting to campus every day. Parking might be an expense in either case, but it may be cheaper for an on-campus student to park than someone who commutes. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of groceries if you plan on living off-campus and compare that to the ‘board’ costs of eating at the dorm cafeterias.

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. Will I be able to study? What dorm dwellers lack in privacy is offset by the accessibility of ample places to go to study in quiet. Campus libraries are often open around the clock, especially during finals week. If you opt to live on campus, you can easily meet with study groups or get yourself to the computer lab at any hour of the day or night. Don’t forget to consider the weather in your area, as well. All it would take would be one big snow storm to keep you away from class if you live off campus.

4. What do I want from my college experience? To you, college 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 online degree programs and online degrees in education.