As you enter your final years of college, you are ready to start transitioning into a more independent lifestyle. For many students, this means moving out of the cramped university dorms into off-campus housing. An apartment in West LA can be the perfect place to live if you are looking to change things up while still staying close to campus.
Here are eight reasons to consider off-campus alternatives over university dorms.
1. Control Over Your Space
With an off-campus residence, you have more control over what happens in your space. You can do things in your own apartment that may be frowned upon in university housing. Having a say over what happens inside your home is an important perk of being an adult.
2. Privacy
The lack of privacy you have in a dorm can make you feel exposed. Perhaps you are an introvert, or maybe you just need some time to unwind without other people around. Regardless, it can be hard to find that alone time in a crowded place like university housing.
One of the main reasons students opt to live off-campus is because they want to live their lives without feeling like everyone is watching. An apartment provides greater privacy for showering, sleeping, and entertaining friends or dates.
3. More Space
Dorm rooms are known for being many things, and being spacious is not one of them. Moving outside of the university means you’ll finally have more space to spread out.
4. Year-Round Accommodations
With off-campus housing, you are not obligated to leave at the end of the term. This is perfect for students who want to stay near campus during the summer to work or take summer classes. Additionally, you can have the same home throughout the rest of your time in college, eliminating the need to move every year. You can even keep your place after you graduate as you transition into the next phase of your life.
5. Affordable Options
Off-campus residences, particularly apartments near UCLA, can be more affordable than on-campus living. With many different options available, including non-traditional arrangements like co-living communities, you are sure to find something that works within your budget and even saves you money.
6. Control Over Your Roommate
Universities give students very little say over who their roommates will be, but with off-campus alternatives, you can have much more control over who you live with. You may want to split the rent with someone you already know, or you might search and interview potential candidates whose lifestyle and values align closely with yours.
7. City Experiences
University residences can insulate students from the surrounding city. With your own apartment, you can experience more of the city while remaining conveniently close to school.
8. Independence
Perhaps the most important benefit of off-campus living is the greater independence it provides you with. You have much more control over your schedule, your space, and your company.
You are no longer a new student who needs structure and boundaries to succeed in your studies. Off-campus housing gives you the freedom you need as you approach graduation.