It’s that time of year again. Now that it’s post-spring break, you’re officially in the last stretch of the semester where you’re picking classes for next year and maybe even figuring out where you to want to live on campus. But for some collegiettes, the bigger question is deciding if you’re ready to make the big move off campus. However, before you make the leap, there are a few details you may want to consider. We’ll weigh the pros and cons of whether or not living off campus is a good fit for you and answer the question, “So what’s living off campus really like?”
But before we start, take this mini-quiz:
1. When I get hungry, I…
- Head straight to the nearest dining hall. Why go anywhere else when I can choose pizza, Lucky Charms or ice cream for dinner? It’s a no-brainer.
- Prefer to cook my own meals even if it takes more time and is a little more costly. I’m not even sure if that chicken in the dining hall is actually meat—better safe than sorry.
2. Last night’s party was a blast, but now your dorm room is trashed. Who’s cleaning up?
- Isn’t that what Sundays are for? I’m way too hung over to even think about leaving my bed. Tackling a stained carpet and picking up beer cans can wait.
- You’ve already got a broom in your hand and have recruited your roommates to mop the kitchen. Hey, if you don’t clean up, who else will?
3. When it comes to budgeting at college, I…
- Budget? What budget? When I need money for the bar, a new Forever 21 top or a Friday night wings order, I just charge it on my credit card. Done.
- Tend to be more frugal. I set aside an amount of money each month for things that I want (like money for ordering out), but also for things that I need (like monthly prescription refills). The rest I try to save up.
4. True or false: I have a job or some source of income.
- Nope.
- Yes.
5. Picture this: you’re living off campus. It’s snowing and you have an 8 a.m. Will you be going to class?
- Well, it’s going to take me at least 20 minutes to scrape all the ice and snow off of my car and probably just as longer to drive to the commuter parking lot because the roads are so slippery (not to mention finding a parking space). I’ll probably just sleep this one through just to be safe.
- Sure. I might have to get up extra early or take the school’s bus system, but I’ll find a way to make it to class.
6. For me, sharing bathroom space is…
- Not a big deal.
- A hassle. I hate not having privacy, wearing shower shoes and having to wait to take a shower.
Answer key:
Mostly A’s: You might want to hold off ‘til next year before moving off campus.
Mostly B’s: Congrats! You’re ready to move off campus.
Let’s break it down.
