Whether residential arrangements are made in a dorm, an apartment, or at home, the college living experience is one like no other; but do not worry, no one option is necessarily better than another.
A few things to consider while deciding on where to live include cost, convenience, and quality.
For freshman new to the financial obligations that accompany a college education, cost is critical. Often times, dorms are the most expensive option, generally in-state dorm costs range from $4,000 to $9,000 per year (honors dorms being most costly). However, the high dollar value is due greatly to the convenience of living on campus, close to classes and all the action.
Also to be noted, is the in-state universities’ common practice of requiring that freshman live on campus for the first year. So if one plans to live off campus, be aware of the exception process ahead.
With an apartment, the spectrum of options is much larger than that of a dorm. Apartment residency offers a range of prices and floor plans along with less restrictions. Although most students look into apartments after their first year, they can be a viable option as long as the funds are present and one is willing to put in a bit more effort in getting to classes and making friends off-campus.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, accounting for all post-secondary institutions (both public and private), tuition and room and board costs have increased from $7,759 in 1980-81 to $18,133 in 2010-11. Rates are going up yearly for a majority of schools, which means current and future students will be facing the highest prices yet. The idea of a stay-at-home student is gaining popularity as college tuition and room and board rates skyrocket.
If the main focus is finding an economic living experience, the most sensible option is home! Living at home may present some difficulties with transportation and on-campus involvement but if the distance between school and home is reasonable, taking advantage of virtually “free” residence and maybe even some home-cooked meals is the way to go.
For students and parents alike, it is imperative to discuss living at home or on campus. Individual preferences require planning, which may invite arguments, but also heavily depend on cooperation and compromise from both parties.
