Reasons Students Choose to Move into Residence or Off-Campus Apartments

Many students choose to live in residence during their first year of university to meet new people and make friends. Others, however, prefer to find a room or local apartment to save money and maintain privacy. As both options have their share of benefits, you’ll need to decide what is most important to you.

Moving into Residence

If you live in a University of Waterloo residence, you’ll immediately meet plenty of people. It will be easy to make friends, as you’ll be around people of a similar age who are in the same situation as you. This can help reduce any feeling of homesickness.

Another major benefit is convenience. You’ll be back home straight after class and you can sleep in the morning almost right up until you need to go to class. Plus, everything you need will be in one place, including study resources, food, and activities to take part in.

Finally, you’ll have almost as much freedom as living off campus. You’ll still have your own space and, for the most part, you can do whatever you want. There will be some rules, but no curfews or anything too strict.

Choosing an Off-Campus Apartment

The main advantage of an off-campus apartment is improved privacy and a lack of distractions. This gives you the chance to socialize only when you want to. The rest of the time, you can enjoy peace and quiet. You’ll also avoid sharing a bathroom, laundry room, and kitchen with too many people. It will be much more comfortable having your own — and far less frustrating.

Another advantage is that you’ll likely spend less. Off-campus apartments tend to be cheaper, but you’ll also see monetary savings by buying groceries and preparing your own food. Plus, you’ll eat better meals and start learning how to take care of yourself.

Lastly, there are fewer rules with an apartment than on campus. For instance, there’s no need to be silent when exams are taking place and there are no restrictions as to who can stay over.

If you want all the above — to meet new people, save money, maintain a sense of privacy, and easily reach school — your best option is student apartments for rent near University of Waterloo. Student housing at King Street Towers, for instance, gives you the opportunity to meet other students in places like the onsite fitness center, recreation center, and group study lounges. At the same time, you can be on your own and focus on your studies whenever you want.