Deciding where you are going to call home for the next year is a big decision. Off-campus and on-campus living can be very different experiences so it’s important to take time and really think about what is best for you and your academic career. Write a list of what you need to thrive and evaluate what aligns most with what you are looking for.
On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Living: Quick Comparison
On-campus living is best for students who want convenience, built-in community, and easy access to dining, classes, and campus resources.
Off-campus living is better for students who want more independence, flexible living arrangements, and year-round housing, but it comes with added responsibilities like leases and utilities.
Is On-Campus Living at SEMO Right for You?
What is community-style housing?
Single person and double person rooms are offered in community style housing. The building is coed, but each floor is divided by gender. There is a shared bathroom conveniently located in the middle of both hallways on each floor. The bathroom is maintained by SEMO’s professional cleaning staff. Laundry is located on the first floor.
Greek housing is also community-style.
Community-style housing is best for:
-First-year students
-Students who want to make friends easily
-Students who want to have their own room
What is Suite-style housing?
Suite style housing consists of two residence hall rooms that share a bathroom. The floors are co-ed, but each suite is divided by gender. Washers and dryers are located on each floor. All special interest housing communities are located in suite style dorms.
Suite-style housing is best for:
-Students who want to live near people within their major
-A group of friends who want to live on campus together
-Students who want to live near people who share a common interest
Off-campus living:
Apartment complexes
There are a variety of different apartment complexes in Cape Girardeau. Most are singles, doubles or quadruples that have a kitchen, living room and at least one bathroom. Typically, your unit will have a washer and dryer, but that is not always the case. There are many apartment complexes geared towards college students and are located close to the school.
Apartment living is best for:
-Students who want less rules
-Students who want to live further away from class
Renting a House
Renting a house comes with the most variety. There are many options for rentals in Cape in plenty of different neighborhoods. You will need to pay a deposit before moving in. This is typically an equivalent of one month's rent. Utilities and trash are not included, so you will have to register with the city and companies for those needs.
Renting a house during college is best for:
-Students who want more privacy
-Students who want to live with a large group of friends
Things to consider:
-Do you enjoy being able to walk downstairs to the dining hall?
-Do you enjoy having quiet hours to study during finals and to fall asleep?
-Do you plan to stay in Cape Girardeau over the summer and need a year lease?
-Do you like a separation from campus after school, or do you like to roll out of bed and walk straight to class?
-Do you have a car, or do you rely on the shuttle system?
-Do you want to commit to signing a lease or do you want the flexibility of a dorm?
-Do you have someone willing to co-sign your lease.
-Do you have a pet? Does the housing situation you are considering allow pets?
When should I decide where to live?
Start exploring options early, so you have time to compare availability, costs, and commitments before deadlines or lease signing. If you are moving off campus, housing arrangements should be finalized near the end of the first semester or the beginning of the second semester. For SEMO dorms, the housing contract can be submitted until May.
Can my housing choice change later?
Changes depend on timing and availability. On-campus options are more flexible, allowing you to switch rooms. Off-campus options have their residents commit to a lease, which is basically a contract. These are typically finalized once signed.
How much does housing affect my college experience?
Your living arrangement can influence your daily schedule, sense of community, and access to campus resources. This will be your home. Make sure that you live somewhere you would like to spend time.
Who should I contact with housing questions?
The Office of Residence Life is a helpful starting point for guidance on on-campus housing and next steps. If you have friends who live in a dorm or an apartment complex you're interested in, ask them about their experiences. You can also call the landlords of the places you’re looking into.
There is no one-size-fits-all housing option. Certain places to call home will be better for different people, so keep in mind what is best for you.