Sorcha
How did you know if you wanted to dorm/stay local?
I want to know so that I can decide if whether or not I want to go away.#collegesoon #college
2 answers
Jennifer Haden
Jennifer’s Answer
I'd recommend staying on campus. You don't want to miss the fun!
Studies show that students who live on campus in their first year are more engaged and more likely to persist. What does that mean? You're more likely to make friends and stay to graduation at that college if you live on campus. :-)
Universities plan many events and encourage new students to participate as much as they can in the first six weeks. We know that students make the decision whether or not they will stay at that institution to graduation in that critical time. Give yourself every opportunity, and stay on campus.
I lived on campus all four years of my undergraduate experience and loved it. I didn't like leaving on the weekend (even to go home to wash clothes) because I always felt like I would miss something. This feeling may change for you as an upperclassman (junior, senior) but I never envied my friends who had apartments across the street. I was in the center of the action right on campus.
I hope that perspective helps with your decision! Wishing you all the best -
college-soon on-campus
Tracy Hali
Tracy’s Answer
Hi Sorcha, as a freshman, I would highly recommend living on campus in a dorm. This will allow you to meet other students and really get a good understanding of college life! I lived on campus for 4 years, the first 2 in the dorm and the last 2 in my sorority house. I loved living on campus because I could walk to my classes, the library, stores, restaurants, etc. everything was right there!
It also sounds like you are deciding on whether to go to a local school or move away. Your college experience is a time where you will experience new things and gain independence. It is 4 years of your life that you will look back on and remember (and make some great friendships along the way). You have to do what is best for you, but in my opinion, if you have the ability to go to a school away from where you grew up, then go for it! Good luck to you!