Student living can be difficult on top of all the big decisions you are already making. Here are the considerations you should be making.
When it comes to starting university or college, many decisions need to be made, especially regarding whether you’re going to opt for living in a dormitory or living independently in your own apartment.
One of the most significant decisions you will make when starting college is whether you want to live on campus, in a dorm, or in an apartment. There are pros and cons with both of these living options; on-campus dorms are the perfect choice for first-year students who are being newly exposed to campus life and aren’t looking to do much in terms of commuting, while off-campus options are better for those students looking for a little more freedom and amenities.
If you need help with how to live your college life, here are all the factors you should consider surrounding dorm life vs. independent living.
Critical differences between dorms and apartments
Whether you are looking at Washington, Stamford, or UCLA student housing, dorms are typically much lower in price than apartments. The price will vary based on location, size, and other reasons. Generally, apartments cost more than dorms because of amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities.
Regarding privacy, dormitories will always be less than private apartments. With dorms, you share a space with other students, but you will have your own bathroom and living area in your apartment. It is also very likely that you’ll have access to shared amenities such as a backyard or a swimming pool, depending on the kind of place you’re renting.
Apartments are likely to offer more amenities, including laundry and kitchen facilities, whereas dormitories do not. You should consider the internet connection and how close you’re to campus.
Dormitories will always be much closer to campus as they are found on campus. If this is a factor for you, it is the type of living you should consider.
The benefits of living in an apartment
Getting any privacy from living in a dorm is nearly impossible if you spend excessive amounts to bring your own private room. Apartments offer much more regarding privacy; even if you opt for a shared living arrangement, occupants tend to get individual rooms and en suite bathroom.
There are strict codes for living in a dorm; even a curfew can sometimes be imposed. When living in an apartment, you have the freedom of coming and going as you please, often resulting in fewer restrictions on what you do in your day-to-day life. Another advantage is that you will have much more periodic surprise inspections. Your apartment manager will have access to your apartment, but they will usually give you a warning before their arrival. Dorm inspections happen frequently and can happen at any time.
You will often find that apartments offer much more personal space than dormitories. You will have an entire kitchen, living room, bedroom, and a private bathroom. You’ll be lucky to have enough space for a desk and a bed living in a dorm.
Shopping for groceries and making your meals at home is cheaper than on-campus meals or takeaway orders, and it will equip you with many vital skills needed for future life. There are fewer meal options when living on campus, and you are at the mercy of the cafeteria’s open hours. You get much more options regarding menu choices when living in an apartment, and you can also eat whenever you feel hungry.
If you want to invite a guest over for dinner or to stay the night, you do not have to ask the RA or your roommate. If parties are your thing, you also have a much easier life when living in an apartment, depending on how your neighbors are. Discuss with them before you play host or invite them over.
The benefits of living in a dorm
Unlike apartments, cable, water, internet, telephone, and electricity are typically free when living in a dorm. Few colleges charge a connection fee for internet or cable, but it is much less expensive than the monthly fees that come with living in an apartment.
Many college dorms have social activities planned each month to help students meet new people and make new friends. You can usually find several campus activities within walking distance from your dorm. You could watch a football game or movie or even attend a club function. A lot of these activities on campus are also free.
Whenever you need an ear to listen to or someone to lend a shoulder after a long day, someone is always available in the dorms. Your RA can be compared to your big brother or sister and a building superintendent. He or she may also surprise you with goody bags, other trinkets around the holidays, and the occasional pizza party to celebrate special occasions.
It is common for students living on campus to purchase a meal plan as well. This means no cooking or cleaning. The college may also provide cleaning services for common areas and bathrooms, so you will only need to make your bed and wash your clothes. Apartment dwellers are expected to take care of everything themselves.
In some college dormitories, students can watch movies or sports on large-screen TVs or play games in a game room or pool table. Some newer dorms, such as the Osprey Fountains at the prestigious University of Florida, include a lazy river and gym. As a student living on campus saves you time on your commute, you might prefer living in a dormitory if you usually wake up right before class.
Whichever option you choose in the end, remember to weigh the pros and cons of each. And know that you can always move to a different space if where you are doesn’t meet your needs as a student.
p.s. Related posts:
What You Need to Ask About Dorm Rooms!
Dorm Rooms at Northwestern University
Dorm Room Essentials & My Daughter’s Move In
RISD Pre-College Dorm Room: Summer 2022
My Dorm Room Start Up Celebrates 35 Years & Entrepreneurship Children’s Books
Waitlisted at College? Here’s What To Do!
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