by Sam Smart

Created on: November 06, 2007   Last Updated: December 29, 2009

One of the common decisions in beginning a college education is by deciding whether or not to live on campus. This can depend on the distance between the college you want to attend and your home. There are many times when students choose to live on campus even though their homes are only a couple of miles away. On the other hand, some students feel it is best for them to commute between classes to save money living at home. Some college students choose to move their belongings to their dorm rooms; other students feel comfortable staying with their parents.

*On-Campus Living

Undergraduate students who live very far away from a large university campus are often required to live in dormitories. Staying at the campus can be a remarkable experience for them. They can discover a fresh new look at independence, including making meals for themselves and having their very own residential addresses. Roommates are given upon requests, and they are usually based on similarities in hobbies and their majors.

If you decide in your live in a dorm with your roommate, the two of you should create an agreement regarding to getting along and respecting property. If your roommate is studying or sleeping, you should have the effort to keep quiet. Be sure that you ask to use his or her belongings. Learn to share the room's space as well.

On disadvantage for many college students is that living on campus will cost money. A typical freshman student can be expected to pay $5,000 a year at a large state university. That expense often includes meal plans, utilities, and board. Unless you choose to prepare your own meals, create a meal plan that works best for you. One popular option might be a 21-meal plan that consists of 3 meals per day, which is good for the entire week. Take note that as enrollment increases in many colleges, fees for living on campus will rise each year.

*Commuting

Aside from tuition, books and supplies, the major source of finance commuter students pay is gasoline for transportation. If you wish to commute to your college or university, you will likely save plenty of money doing so. Also, if you can afford to prepare your own meals, you can save money and won't have to use a meal plan for commuter students.

There are still some disadvantages about commuting to college. Sometimes you will have to travel through inclement weather, and that could delay your arrival to your classes. In winter, if there is a big snowstorm, but your college classes are still in session, you may have to reconsider attending classes. Perhaps you might have to contact your professors because the roads are too slippery for you to drive on. Special meetings and appointments can call for traveling several miles, too. Commuting to college should not be a chore, but do always plan ahead and drive safely.

Would you like to live on campus or commute between classes? It is up to you. If you wish to be on your own and live with students, then a dormitory is for you. If you are comfortable driving to college to save the room costs, you can do that, too. All it matters is that you are attending college for your degree.

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