Savanna Hoffman
Students who live on university campuses are often referred to as residents or on-campus residents. They usually live in dormitories, also known as dorms, which are typically located nearby or inside university campuses. Dormitories can be co-educational, with single-sex rooms or floors, or even feature co-educational bathrooms. In some countries, dormitories may be referred to by other names, such as PG housing or student hostels in India, chambres universitaires in France, and Studentenwohnheim in Germany. While living on campus offers convenience and a sense of community, some students may prefer to live off-campus in private apartments or houses to have more independence and amenities.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Students living in university campus | Suitcase students |
| Dormitories, dorms, residence halls, student hostels | |
| Halls of residence | |
| Fraternity/sorority houses | |
| Campus apartments | |
| University-owned apartments | |
| PBSAs (in the UK, Australia, New Zealand) | |
| Student PGs (in India) | |
| Student housing |
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What You'll Learn
'Suitcase students'
In the United States, the term "suitcase student" is used to refer to students who live in university residence halls during the week but return home on weekends. Suitcase students view their time at university as temporary, packing a suitcase of clothes as if they are going on vacation.
Suitcase students attend "suitcase schools", colleges or universities where a significant number of students leave campus during the weekends. This phenomenon is common in institutions where many students live nearby or within easy travelling distance of their parents' homes. It can also occur at campuses situated in more remote or rural locations, where students might head to urban areas for more activities.
The concept of "suitcase students" and "suitcase schools" is influenced by several factors. Firstly, the non-permanence of dormitory residence contributes to this culture, as students may not consider their campus accommodation as "home" in the same way they view their parents' house. Secondly, the lack of engaging activities and events on weekends can prompt students to leave campus. The 2012 end-of-year survey by the Higher Education Research Institute at UCLA supports this, reporting that 39% of first-year students at less selective campuses frequently went home.
The term "suitcase student" captures the transient nature of these students' campus lives, as they move between their university and home environments, seeking the comforts of home, the company of old friends, and the conveniences of family life.
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Student housing options
Students living on a university campus are often referred to as residents or resident students. They can choose from a variety of housing options, both on and off campus.
On-campus housing is a popular choice for freshmen and sophomores as it provides a sense of community and convenience. Dormitories, or dorms, are a common type of on-campus housing, where students share a room or suite with one or more roommates, and have access to communal bathrooms, laundry facilities, and other amenities. Some colleges may require freshmen to live in dorms to encourage community building. While dorms offer a traditional residential experience, they may not always feel like a true home, and students may crave more space and privacy as they progress through their college years.
Apartment-style living is another option for on-campus housing. These apartments may be marketed specifically for students and can offer more independence and privacy than dorms. Students can choose to live with roommates and enjoy amenities like a backyard for socialising.
Off-campus housing provides even more freedom and independence. Students can rent an apartment or a house, either on their own or with roommates. This option comes with additional responsibilities, such as signing leases, paying utilities, and managing rent. However, it allows students to create their own space and choose their living arrangements, such as single-gender or all-gender floors. Moving back in with parents is also an off-campus option that can save money on rent and other expenses.
Some colleges may have specific requirements for the number of years students must live on campus, with some mandating on-campus residence for all four years, while others may not require it at all. Students should research the housing options and requirements of their college before deciding on their living arrangements.
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Dormitory life
Dorm rooms are typically small and tight quarters, with limited personal space. Students often have to share bedrooms, and sometimes bathrooms, with roommates. This can be an adjustment, as the constant presence of roommates may make it difficult to feel comfortable and relaxed in one's own space. It requires students to develop important skills in compromising, respect, and consideration, and personal responsibility. For instance, students must be thoughtful of roommates' sleep schedules, keep their belongings neat, and ask before using their roommates' possessions.
Living in a dormitory also provides opportunities for students to get involved in campus events and join clubs and organizations, allowing them to build a sense of community and forge lasting friendships. Resident Assistants (RAs) play a crucial role in fostering this community by offering guidance, maintaining a safe environment, and addressing student concerns.
For many students, the dormitory is not considered their permanent home, and they may spend weekends away from campus, returning to their parents' homes. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as 'suitcase culture' or having a 'suitcase mentality'. Nevertheless, the dormitory experience is a memorable part of student life, shaping their college journey and providing skills that will be useful beyond their time at university.
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Student hostels
When it comes to university life, students have different options for accommodation. Some universities offer on-campus accommodation in the form of dormitories or residence halls, while others may choose to rent a room off-campus in the nearby city.
Hostels often attract a diverse range of students, including international students, exchange students, and those seeking short-term accommodation during their studies. They provide a great opportunity for residents to connect with like-minded individuals, form study groups, and develop lasting friendships. Many hostels organise social events, tours, and activities to encourage interaction and create a fun and inclusive environment.
Online platforms, such as Hostelworld, offer convenient booking services for student hostels worldwide. These websites provide detailed descriptions, photographs, and reviews to help students make informed choices about their accommodation. Students can also connect with fellow travellers and gain insights into the hostel experience before they arrive.
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On-campus vs off-campus
There are several factors to consider when deciding between living on or off campus. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice depends on individual preferences and circumstances.
Living on campus offers convenience and a unique social experience. Residence halls are typically located close to or on campus, eliminating the need for transportation or finding parking spaces. Students living on campus can easily make friends and form connections with their peers. On-campus housing also provides access to various amenities, such as laundry facilities, cleaned bathrooms, and meal plans, which can be beneficial for students who want to focus on their studies without worrying about daily tasks. However, on-campus living can be expensive, and the lack of privacy and quiet spaces may be challenging for some students.
On the other hand, living off campus provides more independence and privacy. Students can choose their location, find apartments with desired amenities, and often have their own private bedrooms and bathrooms. This arrangement suits those who prefer a quieter environment for studying and value their personal space. Additionally, living off campus can be more cost-effective, as students can avoid mandatory meal plans and other fees associated with on-campus housing. However, commuting to campus can be a drawback, with potential challenges related to parking and attending social events.
In the United States, students who live near campus but commute to their family homes on weekends are sometimes referred to as "suitcase students". This phenomenon is common in certain states, such as Connecticut, where many students live within a short distance of their parents' houses.
Ultimately, the decision between on-campus and off-campus living depends on individual needs and priorities. While on-campus living offers convenience and a rich social experience, off-campus living provides independence, privacy, and a quieter environment. Considering factors such as location, cost, amenities, and personal preferences can help students make the right choice for their university years.
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Frequently asked questions
Students living in university campus housing are referred to as "on-campus" students.
Students who live off-campus are referred to as "off-campus" students.
In the US, a student who only stays on campus during the week and returns home on the weekends is sometimes referred to as a suitcase student.
