St. George offers Dixie State University students a plethora of housing options ranging from on-campus dorms to regular homes, each with their own pros and cons.
One option that most universities heavily encourage for freshmen is on-campus housing. DSU’s on-campus housing options include Campus View Suites, Abby Apartments, Chancellor Apartments, Nisson Towers and Shiloh Hall.
Statistics published by the University of Northern Iowa in 2010 show that students who live on-campus perform better in classes and have a higher graduation rate. If this alone isn’t motivation enough to live on campus, think of the driving that would be avoided. Plus, no commute means sleeping in a little longer and hopefully being on time to class.
Furthermore, students who live on campus have the luxury of knowing they are just steps away from every school event and can always take a quick walk to their room if they forget something.
Dayne Hall, a sophomore media Studies Major from Mililani, Oahu, said a con of living on campus is the restrictions that are inflicted on students.
Hall said: “Restrictions on cooking and having to have your room checked is something that makes some people feel like they didn’t leave high school. A lot of students go away for college to have more freedom and learn to be on their own, but when they have someone watching them at all times it makes them feel like they haven’t left their house.”
Students who are looking for freedom from rules may have an issue with the regulations that come with living on campus.
Fortunately, DSU also offers students a variety of off-campus options. While there are over 15 apartment listings featured on the DSU website, a few of the popular options include Vintage at Tabernacle, The Stay, and 605 Place.
Choosing the off-campus route not only allows students to get in the habit of driving to work every day, but also allows them to have time away from school.
“When they have someone watching them at all times, it makes them feel like they haven’t left their house.”
Finally, there is the option of renting a house or apartment by yourself or with friends. This option is sure to give college students a taste of the real world with the responsibility of dividing rent and utility bills. Additionally, there will not be any property management staff to assist with maintenance requests and other arising issues.
Karrigan Inae, a senior exercise science major from Riverside, California, said this will be her third year renting a house with friends. Inae said while the freedom from housing management and campus regulations is unmatched, there are some downfalls to keep in mind.
“Sometimes it’s hard living with friends because you don’t want to be rude and boss them around, but chores and payments have to be done and met on a regular basis,” Inae said. “You just have to hope that everyone holds themselves responsible for these things, and sometimes it just doesn’t happen.”
If this sounds like a feasible route, be sure to give thought to who you trust, be punctual with payments, stay motivated to maintain a clean space, and considerate of the rest of the housemates.
Inae said a great idea is to lay down some house rules as soon as everyone is moved in. Divide chore responsibilities, agree on weekly cleaning days and set guidelines on guests. While you may think living with your friends sounds fun, some miscommunication and money can certainly end friendships.
No matter what home away from home a student picks, each option equips them with the life long skills of independence, responsibility and self-efficiency.
For further information regarding housing options at DSU, visit housing.dixie.edu.
