When you’re leaving the nest and gearing up to go away to college, you’ve got a decision to make – dorm or off campus student housing. Both types of student housing have their advantages, and it’s really up to you to decide which one you prefer. With study sessions, course work and an overall busy class schedule, choosing the best living environment is an integral part of your academic success and college experience. Things to consider in your decision include finances, proximity to campus, convenience, socialization and amenities.
Finances
While dorms are typically small, they aren’t exactly cheap. According to the College Board, the average cost of room and board at four-year private colleges is approximately $10,000, and the average cost of room and board at four-year public colleges is about $9,000. That being said, you just may find it costs less to rent an apartment in a college student apartment complex off campus when you have multiple roommates.
Proximity to Classes
Of course, living in a dorm puts you very close to all of your academic buildings. At the same time, you can find off campus student housing within five to 10 minutes from campus, whether you have a car, bike or take public transportation.
Food
What about your meal time? Do you like to have your meals cooked for you or do prefer to do your own grocery buying and cooking? Meal plans are often part of the college housing package. At the same time, most full-time college students can opt for a partial meal plan if they live off campus. Sign up for a few meals a week or grab something to eat on the way to class.
College Events
Living in a dorm also puts you very close to extracurricular activities and college events, such as football games and college club parties. If you don’t mind the short trek to campus for some college fun, off campus student housing will keep you in the college-lifestyle loop.
Amenities
Perhaps, the defining factor in whether to live on campus or off campus student housing is amenities. Today, there are upscale college student apartment complexes that offer fine amenities, such as heated outdoor spas, separate bathrooms, in-apartment washers and dryers, cafes, courtyards with outdoor grills, resident lounges with flat-screen TVs, study areas and fitness centers. These types of college student apartment complexes make it easy to socialize. Populated with the college crowd, you can make new friends. Also, these types of college student apartment complexes make it easy to invite campus buds over to have some fun. Go for a dip in the pool, grill up some lunch, watch a movie or enjoy some game fun.
If You Choose Off Campus Student Housing
If you’re final decision is off campus student housing, be sure to check out The Standard at Boone. We offer upscale amenities to enhance the college lifestyle. From modern apartments and amenities like a heated outdoor spas, a café and resident lounge rooms, The Standard at Boone is where casual college living meets luxury.