Living away from home: On campus/Off Campus

Many students choose to live away from home when they go to college.  This can be a difficult conversation to have at home.  It also requires planning and organization well ahead of the time you have to start college.  

Here is a good news article from U.S. News from December 2021 that discusses this issue in some detail: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/paying-for-college/articles/what-to-know-about-choosing-between-housing-on-or-off-campus Links to an external site.

Living On Campus

This means you will spend every day and night in a room at the college or university.  You may have a room or share it with a roommate.  You have your meals at the student dining hall or cafeteria.  You share a bathroom with others.  

The advantage is that you are supported if you need assistance with your studies, health services are on campus, and it is usually considered a safer environment. 

Living Off Campus

If the college or university you are attending is close to your home, then you may choose to stay home or, if not, choose to live in housing that is not part of the college or university, such as an apartment.  You must provide your transportation and meals, but you are more independent.  

It is really up to you and your family what the best option is, and it will also depend on your financial availability.