After living in Wolfe Tower for less than a month my freshman year at TCNJ, I was already vigorously researching housing options for my sophomore year. Not to say that living in the freshman towers wasn’t fun, but the building simply didn’t have the amenities that I deemed necessary. The first month was undoubtedly the worst because of the hot and sweaty conditions. Every time I walked into my building, it felt like I was entering a sauna. Air-conditioning, I thought. I’ll definitely need air-conditioning for next year. That was just the start of the list that included wireless Internet, a parking space, a semi-private bathroom, etc.
This year, I am all moved into Campus Town and so far, it’s the perfect living situation for me – I have all of the necessities that made my list last year. However, what some people may not realize is that the Campus Town housing is considered off-campus housing. Although the only thing separating us from campus is crossing Metzger Drive, there are definitely major differences that come with Campus Town and off-campus living.
1. Parking
Being able to have a car on campus feels like such a luxury. Last year I found myself taking an Uber to the grocery store or begging an upperclassman to take me out to eat. With no car on campus, it was easy to feel a bit trapped. In Campus Town, I am able to have a car and a parking spot. Freedom is wonderful!
2. Privacy
My roommates and I are all living separately in our own rooms, which is a big step up from the towers where I was sharing a room with someone else, and a small room at that. The seclusion of having your own room makes your space feel more like home.
3. The Bed
I was always so uncomfortable on the twin beds in the towers. Of course, my mattress topper helped and it was bearable, but having a full-size bed in Campus Town is so relaxing!
4. Roommates
As everyone knows, it’s really difficult as an incoming freshman to choose your roommate and actually get matched with that person. Not only did you have to match with your chosen roommate but you also needed to take the same FSP and well, just get lucky! Now I’m living with three others girls who I chose to live with!
Although living off-campus in Campus Town is great, I cannot discredit my experience in Wolfe Tower last year. I owe some of my best memories and best friends to my freshman floor and I’ll never forget all the good that came with living there. Where you live is completely preference, and whether on or off this beautiful campus you can’t go wrong!