It’s only October (okay, more like "already October") but for many people the conversations about who to live with and where to live next year have begun.
One of the most pivotal times for this discussion comes between sophomore and junior year, when thinking about moving off campus and taking the step towards a house or an apartment. This conversation can be very exciting, but mainly I just remember it as being super stressful. House hunting means weighing price and locations and everyone’s different priorities, all the while feeling the creeping fingers of a life deadline spread around your throat.
Clearly, I'm super casual about big decisions.
So I would like to tell anyone who is currently in this position that it really does seem to work itself out for everyone. I know people who ended up in all kinds of different places and are each very happy in their own ways. So, for those of you in the pros and cons phase, here are some insights on the potentials.
HousePros: Normally offers optimal personal space and customization opportunities. It is also really fun to pretend to be a real adult and homeowner.
Cons: If you live in a family neighborhood, they may call the cops on you when you are too loud playing beer pong in the backyard, so be aware. Otherwise it is more secluded than campus or apartments, depending on the area, so depends on your personal preference if you like that or nah.
DuplexPros:Many of the perks of a normal house but with more potential for new frans. Need a break from your actual roommates? Go borrow the ones who lease the other half of the house for a little while.
Cons: If your new frans are actually really loud and the walls are thin and you can hear them playing Guitar Hero on full-blast when you’re trying to study. But really, what happened to Guitar Hero? That game was awesome.Apartment
Pros: A bit less responsibility. No lawn to tend to (or not tend to; let’s be honest, you’re in college). Possibly pre-furnished to make your move-in easier. Another opportunity to have cool close neighbors.
Cons: You may lose some creative license with the décor and it may be a bit harder to create that “homie” feel.
Staying on CampusPros: You are still in the center of all of the action. You stay in the know. It is really easy to see anyone else on campus and super convenient to go to your room for a between-class nap. Also, you are probably more motivated to study because people around you are doing it.
Cons: If you are an upperclassman a lot of your friends will have moved off campus and you may feel a bit left behind and have the sense that you still aren’t living in the “real world.”
Maybe I didn't tell you anything you didn't already know, but the main point is that no matter where you end up and who you end up, there are bound to be some cool things about it. Happy scouting.
