This year I finally took the leap and moved off-campus.
Freshman year I lived in the dorms, but for the past two years I lived in my
sorority house. I have so many great memories from living there, but I wanted a
change for my senior year. So, I gathered up a group a friends and we embarked
on our house search. It was just like House Hunters. We toured houses, and then
had three to choose between. I’m so glad I made the decision to live
off-campus, but I’m also really glad I waited until my senior year.
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| My humble abode for the year. |
One of the main reasons I wanted to live off-campus was so
that I could choose who I would live with. I absolutely love my sorority
sisters, but I also love my rowing teammates. By moving off-campus I was able
to live with who I wanted, which happened to be 2 teammates, 2 friends from
freshman year, and 1 girl who is a teammate and a sorority sister. Choosing who
to live with can be really difficult, but it’s essential that you find a group
that melds well. Just because someone is your best friend doesn't mean you
would be great housemates. It’s okay to be honest with yourself about who you
can and cannot live with since that house will last for an entire year.
When looking for a house, make sure to weigh all your
options. First and foremost, consider whether it is better to live on-campus or
off-campus. If you decide that off-campus is the best option for you, it’s time
to figure out your budget. Most people account for rent and utilities, but
don’t forget the other expenses. There’s no longer anyone to provide toilet
paper or cleaning supplies. The little odds and ends expenses can really add
up. The biggest shock to my wallet has been food. I didn't have a meal plan
when I lived here over the summer and I was surprised by how much time and
money to took to make three meals a day. When school started I decided to get a
small meal plan so I could grab lunch on campus between classes and coffee
whenever I wanted it. Some people are amazing cooks and bakers…me, not so much.
If I had to rely on my own abilities, I would be eating a lot of bagels and
taquitos.
Although living off-campus can be daunting, it can also be
really fun. My housemate and I scoured garage sales all summer to collect décor
for our nautical themed living room. It’s still a bit of a work in progress,
but I love it so far. Not living on campus also means not having to follow
strict campus rules. No more quiet hours for me!
Living off-campus can be a great experience in college. If
you have any other tips, leave them in the comments!
