For many college students, living on campus is an essential part of college because it helps create friendships, structure, and independence. As students of SUNY Cortland mature and gain experience, they may consider living off campus after completing the required two years on campus. The transition from living in a residence hall to renting a house/ apartment can be both exciting and challenging. Moving off campus represents a new level of adulthood with more freedom and a little bit of stress.
One of the biggest attractions to move off campus would be independence. No RAs, quiet hours, or a mandatory meal plan to eat at the mid dining hall. While off-campus students now gain more control over their day-to-day. Hannah Aaronson, a junior with a major in Early Childhood Education, says, “I enjoy cooking my own meals and eating with my housemates.” Financially, off-campus housing can be cheaper than living on campus, especially when splitting rent and different kinds of utilities with housemates. The house environment can feel like a more chilled-out and less chaotic environment when compared to dorm life. Some students appreciate having access to their own room with a full-size bed, a full kitchen, and a living room to finally relax after a long day of class.
On the other hand, living off campus has its negatives. Getting the rent in on time, trying not to spend so much on groceries, and buying a lot of utilities can be overwhelming for students who are living on their own. Kate Neil, a Junior with a major in Human Services and a Minor in Psychology of Individuals with Disabilities, says, “I was a little nervous at first, but as time went on, I became more comfortable living off campus.” This transition can be challenging for students in a variety of ways. She encourages other students not to freak out and trust the process when living off campus. Another challenge can be transportation. Living off campus means walking a further distance to class or trying to find a parking spot in the small lots the school offers. This comes with the responsibility to budget for gas and to get better at time management.
To make the move a little easier, students tend to house search at the beginning of the previous school year. In Cortland, many landlords begin new leasing for the following school year in September or October. It is also important to pick roommates carefully. Living with friends can be super fun, but dealing with different cleaning habits, sleep schedules, and even social preferences can be a difficult adjustment and lead to conflict. Finally, students should take advantage of our Financial Aid Office, which can help with budgeting and off-campus housing rights.
Transitioning to off-campus housing can be a big step in the college experience. While it may have its negatives, there are also a lot of positives. It offers life skills that will prepare students for life after college. A current junior named Jenna Schulz with a major in Early Childhood Education says, “I loved living on campus my first two years. I liked being close to my classes and friends. But living off campus has really made me more independent and ready to take on life after graduation.” Whether it is the transition to a real bed from a twin XL or swapping dining hall meals for actual home-cooked meals, this transition opens a new chapter in every college student’s journey. With some planning and patience, it is possible to create a house that feels like a home while at school.