Each year as summer draws to a close and fall sets in, many parents across the nation pack up the car and hit the road to take their son or daughter to college.
This can be an overwhelming experience for some as students’ living expectations may or may not be met. Student housing has changed drastically since parents were in college in the 90s and early 2000s. There are several student housing options to choose from, supported by professional and student staff available to assist. Options range from old on-campus dorms with concrete masonry block walls and shared floor bathrooms and showers, to an ultra-luxury resort studio apartment complete with infinity pools, pet spa, salon and other high-end amenities. Modern student housing offers the advantage of social benefits and community engagement opportunities, creating an environment where new students can make friends and adapt to independent living.
Introduction to Student Housing
Student housing is an essential part of the university experience, providing students with a safe and supportive living environment. Students have a variety of housing options to choose from, including both on-campus and off-campus housing. This flexibility allows students to find accommodations that best suit their needs and preferences.
Living in student housing is also a fantastic way to connect with fellow students and make new friends. Whether a new student or returning for another school year, the sense of community and support found in student housing can greatly enhance the university experience.
Student Housing's Origins
The first residence hall was constructed at the Indian College at Harvard University in 1650. As colleges were increasingly run by religious denominations, such as Protestants, the establishment of a residence hall quickly turned into a means of keeping university students in compliance with religious ideals and implementing moral standards.
As residence halls became more ubiquitous, not all students agreed with the implication of moral standards and constrictive religious applications. This gave rise to Fraternity houses which were established in the mid nineteenth century. Greek organizations served a prominent role in directing college housing away from religious and moral practices and towards social interaction.
The evolution of on and off campus housing reveals the standards that were prominent in different time periods. For example, when more and more women started obtaining undergraduate degrees, universities started designing female dorms different from male’s. In order to rear women towards their suggested domestic lifestyle, their residence halls were designed like houses with large parlors, living areas and more in order to entertain and socialize. Further, the women’s dorms were built safer than others as women were seen to need more protection.
Another example can be found in the stark architectural differences seen before and after World War II. Prior to the War, colleges were building more courtyard-style student housing. After the War, colleges focused resources on modern high-rise architecture as it saved time and money.
Today’s student housing offerings vary greatly from its beginnings in 1650 and its several subsequent generations in the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries. The 21st century has brought with it an abundance of options and choice. With vast student housing alternatives in each market, it is important to understand room assignments and layouts for budgeting and comfort. Students can create roommate groups and a supportive living environment. The room selection process is crucial for Special Interest Communities. Friends can join roommate groups through the housing application software. There is availability of space for study, storage, and creating a comfortable living environment. Checking availability 60 days in advance is recommended for housing options tailored to academic schedules. University websites are a resource for accessing essential information about housing. Optional services, such as meal plans and special interest communities, can be chosen based on students’ needs. The convenience of student housing options close to campus and supportive services is significant.
Housing Considerations for a New Student
As a new student, finding the right housing option is crucial for your academic success and personal well-being. Whether you’re considering campus housing or off-campus housing, it’s essential to explore all available options to find the best fit for your needs and preferences.
On-Campus Housing
As the name suggests, Campus Dorms are generally on campus, making college living easy for freshmen and sophomores who may not have cars, with the room selection process being a crucial step for students to choose their accommodations. Room assignments are contingent upon the number of bed spaces available, which are significant in enhancing the student experience and promoting a conducive living environment on campus. Students need to fill out an application, including any required deposits, to secure their housing. While many colleges and universities have been upgrading Campus Dorms, some Dorms can be basic and older, but they still offer ample space for study and storage. Campus Dorms are great for students getting to know the school, meeting new friends, and who have meal plans at the campus cafeteria, with professional and student staff available 24/7 to support them.
Purpose Built
Historically, if you didn’t live in the dorms, student housing options were houses, condos or apartments. Over the last few decades, new student housing developments have sprouted up nationwide offering improved living environments and bespoke amenities. Purpose-built student housing is specifically designed and constructed to cater to the needs and preferences of college or university students, with a straightforward application process for securing accommodations. These properties are not repurposed or converted from other types of housing but are built from the ground up with features that suit student lifestyles, such as individual bedrooms, common study areas, and the convenience of proximity to campus.
These housing environments focus on providing resources and tools that facilitate respectful living and foster a thriving community, ensuring students’ overall well-being and success during their university experience.
Purpose-built student housing started with the student in mind and enhances the student’s college experience, supported by professional and student staff.
Multifamily Housing
Multifamily housing refers to affordable residential buildings or complexes that contain multiple separate housing units within a single structure or on a single property. These units can include apartments, condominiums, townhouses and other types of residences. Multifamily housing is not exclusive to students but can also cater to families, individuals or other groups. While on-campus and purpose-built student housing options have a built-in community of like-minded students, multifamily housing is more eclectic and can make students feel much more isolated in their schooling living experience.
Room Selection Process in Purpose Built Housing
The room selection process is a critical step in securing your preferred housing option. Typically, this process begins with an online application where students can indicate their preferred housing options and room types.
Students can search for and select roommates through the housing application software or be matched with compatible roommates based on lifestyle preferences. The room selection process usually takes place in the spring semester, with specific dates and deadlines varying by university.
Meal Plans and Dining Options
Meal plans and dining options are an integral part of the university experience, offering convenience and cost-effectiveness for managing food expenses. Universities typically offer a variety of meal plans, including flexible plans, à la carte options, or mandatory meal plans for certain students. By exploring meal plans and dining options, students can find a solution that meets their nutritional needs, budget, and lifestyle preferences.
Parking and Transportation
Navigating parking and transportation options is an important aspect of university life and budgeting. Many university housing complexes offer a range of parking options and transportation services to accommodate students’ needs.
Students can typically purchase parking permits on campus or pay monthly for a covered or uncovered parking stall near their apartment. Parking facilities may include garages, lots, or street parking, with varying rates and restrictions depending on the location and time of day.
Campus Life and Community
College student housing is designed to foster a strong sense of community and connection among residents. With a variety of programs and services available, students are supported in their academic pursuits and personal well-being.
Many schools have campus life and community initiatives that are focused on promoting academic success, personal growth, and social responsibility. With a range of programs and services available throughout the school year, students are encouraged to get involved, make connections, and fully engage with their university experience.
In addition, purpose-built student housing complexes often have resident events, parties, activities, and other community building get togethers that allow residents to get to know and support each other.
Value and Affordability in Rental Rates
Affordability is a key consideration, along with value for what is offered with each student housing option. The costs of student housing can vary widely depending on the type of accommodation and its location. On-campus housing options, such as residence halls, often provide a range of price points to accommodate different budgets. These options typically include utilities and other amenities, making them a convenient choice for many students.
Off-campus apartments can also offer affordable living spaces. There are often various price points in each purpose-built complex depending on size of apartment, number of roommates, and amenity services selected.
Many universities provide financial aid and support services to help students manage housing costs. Budgeting and planning are crucial to ensure that housing expenses are manageable throughout the academic year.
Conclusion
The evolution of student housing has brought about a wide range of options to suit the diverse needs of today’s students. From traditional campus dorms to modern, purpose-built student housing, and multifamily housing, there is something for everyone. Choosing the right housing option is crucial for a successful university experience, as it can significantly impact a student’s academic and personal life.
We encourage students and parents to explore all available options, consider the affordability and amenities, and make informed decisions that will support the student’s success.
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