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The University Debate: On Campus v. Off Campus Living The University of Missouri-Columbia requires all incoming freshman to live in the residential halls their first year of college. After that year, some students are ready to flee the residential halls and monotonous dining hall food for a more tranquil way of life-off campus living. One of the main reasons students leave campus is for the ultimate freedom. “In the dorm it was noisy a lot. Being off campus I get more things done, because there are fewer distractions,” said junior Jennifer Blaha. Aside from the occasional noise factor, the residential halls are conducive to learning and building new friendships. “Almost 65 percent of residence hall students participate in either FIGS (Freshman Interest Groups) or learning communities, and these students tend to stay on campus because it is more convenient and beneficial for them,” said Director of Residential Life Frankie Minor. “Studies have shown that students who live on campus do better academically and are more likely to graduate, plus you stay connected with the campus.” Part of this statistic is due to the fact that the FIGS provide incoming freshman with the opportunity to co-enroll in three classes with other people in their dorm. It is very important for students to stay aware of what’s going on or else you can miss out on important opportunities. The cost of living in the residential halls per year ranges from $4,790-$7,960. The prices range depending on the amenities and room choice that you desire. The fee for living in the halls is reasonable because the rooms come furnished with bunk beds, cable TV outlet, and much more. Through FIGS and learning communities you can always stay abreast on the current news. “Everything is easily accessible, I can find out about parties and activities that are near or within walking distance of campus,” said junior Natalie Waller. Students also enjoy being able to walk through the hallway of their floor and meet new people. The only drawback that you hear many times is that the food isn’t as good as home cooked meals! “Despite the convenience, I do get tired of eating the same food dishes every other week,” Waller said. “The dining halls have tried to give Plaza 900 more variety in the types of food, which it does. The only problem is that if you eat there for lunch and come back for dinner, they have the same meal choices.” If you do decide to move off campus most students think that the cost will be less expensive, this is not necessarily the case. “Some students do not consider additional costs such as gas and transportation, high speed Ethernet, cable service, and other amenities the residential halls offer,” Minor said. Some students that live off campus tend to disagree. They have found the best deals and if you live with 2-3 other people, cost isn’t such a major factor. “My roommates and I split the cost of everything. I only pay $195 for rent, our cable bill is about $50 dollars a month and I spend $40-$50 dollars on groceries which includes when I eat out,” Blaha said.
“Try to best predict what your expenses will be, go to the Center for Student Involvement downstairs in Brady and pick up some pamphlets that will help you understand your rights as a tenant, and the most important thing is to make sure you are involved with some organization which helps you stay connected with the campus,” Minor said. “I like living off campus and I live with three other people, which makes my expenses about the same as living in Cramer hall last year,” Blaha said. Before making the decision about where to live, talk to your parents,
friends, and other students to make an informed decision.
© 2003 CAFNR Corner Post |
