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Advantages and Disadvantages of Dorm Life in US Schools

By Guest author Kristal

Living on campus in dormitories or residence halls in US schools can be a rewarding experience.  It offers you a lot of convenience in terms of proximity to classes and other campus activities.  However, there can be a few drawbacks too, here are some of them.

Advantages of staying in Dorms:

  • Gives you the opportunity to meet and befriend other residents – you can make friends for life – you are surrounded by people your own age and who are making the same adjustments to school and dealing with some of the same pressures as you
  • There are always activities going on to help you get involved
  • Close proximity to classes, campus activities, etc – don’t have to drive
  • Generally have good security and maintenance – you have the peace of mind of knowing that you’re not alone
  • Meal plan…on campus food options offer convenience and require less effort in cooking

Disadvantages of Staying in Dorms:

  • COST…generally more expensive than living off campus in an apartment (with roommates)
  • You might not like your roommate/have noisy neighbors – however, roommate issues can usually be worked out and there are usually policies to regulate noise levels
  • Meal Plan requirement…some schools may require a meal plan for residents which can be an additional cost
  • If you are an international student, you may not have as many options to eat your ethnic food and less options to cook.

Note that some schools may have a requirement for first (and maybe second) year students (freshmen and sophomores) to stay on campus.  This generally depends on the amount of housing available.

About Author : Kristal recently graduated from a State University in US with B.A and B.S in Economics, Mathematics, and Spanish Majors. She is going to attend a reputed University for PhD in Economics in fall 2010 with full funding. She will share her undergraduate experiences and PhD admission tips with our readers.

Image Credit : http://www.earnmydegree.com/online-education/images/costly-dorms/American-Interior.jpg

   

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