If you’re feeling the downsides of living in student residence, you may be wondering how things would be different if you moved off campus. Actually, there are some major differences between the two options — and it’s important to be aware of them to come to an informed decision about what is right for you. Here’s what sets living off campus apart from staying in a dorm.
1. It’s Cheaper
Off-campus housing tends to be less expensive than student residence. Whatever your budget, you should be able to find suitable housing. Plus, there’s no need to pay for a mandatory meal plan.
2. You Have More Privacy
Often, living on campus means sharing a room — typically with a stranger. Furthermore, you share common areas (such as bathrooms) with a large number of other students. In an off-campus rental, you usually have your own room. Plus, you only need to share the living room and kitchen with a few other people and a bathroom with a maximum of about two roommates.
3. The Atmosphere Is Quieter
Student residence is rarely peaceful. With loud roommates, other students dropping by, and neighbours making a racket, it can be difficult to stay focused for long. This can be a problem if you’re studying a challenging major. Living off campus means you’re much more in control of noise levels, and there’s never any need to find somewhere else to study.
4. Apartments Are More Spacious
On-campus housing tends to be cramped and only the bedroom feels like your own space. When you search for an apartment, though, you can find a place with the amount of space and types of rooms you require. For instance, many students like to have a large living room for entertaining and enough kitchen space for preparing meals.
5. You’re Independent
Living in student residence can make you feel like you’re still not an adult. There are rules to follow and you’ll be spending all your time at university. On the other hand, having your own apartment will give you a sense of independence. It’s a good opportunity to learn how to take care of yourself — which you’ll need to know after you graduate.
6. You Have More Choice
Everything is decided for you when you live on campus — from what room you receive to who you share with. Living off campus allows you to decide on your priorities. You can choose the location and style of housing, how many roommates you want, and much more.
7. It’s Another Way to Live the College Experience
Some students worry that living off campus won’t give them an authentic college experience. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. If you decide to share with other students — or, better yet, move into an off-campus student community — you’ll have all the same opportunities for socializing.
It’s clear that the better choice is to live in student rentals. Kingston, Ontario, has Foundry Mack: a student community right near campus and downtown. Both furnished and unfurnished units are available with three or four bedrooms and you have access to great amenities through the Foundry Club. Apply now to secure the floor plan you want.