The transition from high school to college or university is an experience that requires students to grow personally, especially during a worldwide pandemic.
Learning to manage new responsibilities and lots of changes in lifestyle can seem daunting at first; but with the proper preparation, can lead to success. Places4Students.com has some suggestions below that will help students transition to a home away from home!
College & University Requirements
Many colleges and universities have requirements that dictate certain students must live on-campus. Before deciding between on or off-campus housing, make sure to research the school’s specific requirements first. Typical off-campus necessities may be:
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The rental must be within a certain vicinity to campus.
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The student must reach a specified age first.
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The student must reach a certain course credit limit or academic year.
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There is a health or disability requirement that cannot be met living on-campus.
Off-Campus Options
After deciding to live off-campus, the next step is to search what options are available. Things to do and keep in mind when looking for off-campus housing accommodations are:
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Create a monthly budget.
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Research the areas surrounding the campus.
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Decide on having or not having a roommate(s).
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Locate rental properties according to your preferences, such as within walking distance to campus, on a bus route, etc.
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Determine the distances to local amenities required, such as grocery stores, shopping malls, etc.
Deadlines & Important Dates
If on-campus housing is offered and the chosen option, first-year students are usually guaranteed a place in residence; but only when deadlines are met. Living off-campus also incurs deadlines and dates that need to be followed. In order to ensure a smooth transition, make sure due dates are recorded with clear notes. Typical deadlines include:
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Deadline to submit a residence application.
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Deadline for apartment or security deposits.
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Deadlines for immunization record submission.
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Specified move-in/out dates.
Note: International students and those moving from out-of-town should ask if the school offers early move-in/out dates or extended hours during holidays.
Laundry
Students will need to find out where a Laundromat is located, if not on-site at the housing accommodation. Things to consider are:
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Are laundry appliances available within the unit or in the rental building?
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If not, where is the closest Laundromat located?
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Are the appliances coin operated?
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Can detergent, fabric softener, etc. be purchased in the laundry room?
Parking
Whether commuting or living on-campus, parking will be an important factor to consider when deciding whether to bring a car to school or not. Colleges and universities will require students to purchase a pass to park on-campus, which will include several rules to follow. Items to help decide whether a car is needed at college or university are:
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The type of parking passes and associated fees per semester/year?
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The availability and location of parking lots for the student’s program?
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The rules for parking on-campus during holidays and breaks?
Meals
Colleges and universities offer various meal plan options for both on-campus students and commuters. Students should decide if a meal plan is the best option before starting school, by considering the following:
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How much time will be available to cook?
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Will it be possible or a hassle to get to the local grocery store?
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What appliances, utensils, dishes, pots/pans, etc. are available in your kitchen?
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Compare the cost-effectiveness of each option relative to your lifestyle.
SEE ALSO: Students: Be a Good Neighbor
The Places4Students.com Team