Currently, I am a sophomore at the University of Pittsburgh, and I decided to live off-campus this year. This past week alone I have noted many differences between living on and off campus. It’s important to weigh your options before deciding where to live while at school. Here are some reasons to choose living off-campus!
- The food is better
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Original photo by Ruijia Huang You might have to actually go grocery shopping and learn to cook, but the food prepared in your own kitchen tastes better. It’s also healthier than the dining hall options.Â
- Private(ish) bathroom
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The bathroom situation improves astronomically when living off-campus. You don’t have to wear shoes, and you no longer find half eaten pizzas and tater tots on the floor. However, you’ll need to clean it by yourself, but at least you’ll know it was cleaned.Â
- Roommates
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When living off-campus, you get to choose your roommates, so you won’t have an awkward “hiiii so nice to meet you” moment. Navigating life with roommates is tricky sometimes, but it’s a lot of fun most times.Â
- Freedom
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Lastly, you have freedom! Don’t get carried away but enjoy it. Living on your own teaches you important life skills such as not setting off the smoke alarm while frying chicken. Your parents will worry like normal, so don’t forget to call them every once in a while.