Apartments are symbols of freedom to college students. They give students a sense of independence, making them self-sufficient in every aspect of college life because they must provide their own food, clothing, bill payments, and transportation.
Michelle Barthel, leasing manager for Oakbrook Apartments, said there is no monitored entry in apartments. Barthle added that apartments have more space, more privacy and personal bathrooms than dorms.
Many upperclassmen choose to live off campus in apartments for the same reasons.
“I moved into an apartment because I wanted more personal space. I could have people over whenever I wanted, which I couldn’t have if I was in a dorm. You also don’t have all the distractions you have on campus when you’re in an apartment,” said mechanical engineering sophomore Martin Spears.
Spears said he likes the extra space apartments offer and the ability to select his roommates.
English junior William O’Neal said he enjoys the privacy, freedom and responsibility of living in an apartment.
“I like having a place for all my stuff and parking close to where I live,” said biological sciences sophomore Breanne Peters.
Peters said she likes keeping her apartment clean, something she could not do with a dorm roommate who may not be as motivated to clean.
However, students acknowledge negative aspects to apartment life.
For example, Peters said it is inconvenient driving to and from school.
Peters also said she doesn’t like the time it takes to clean dishes on a daily basis.
“Cleaning after yourself and eating your own food is still better than cafeteria food,” Peters said.
Dealing with landlords is one aspect of apartment life O’Neal finds less than desirable.
“He [landlord] came in my apartment while I was at work and told me I needed to move my car, or else it would be towed. I didn’t have a problem with the fact that I had to move my car; it’s the way he delivered the message,” O’Neal said.
O’Neal also said living off campus lowers his school attendance.
Other factors make apartment life attractive to Peters, despite the negative aspects.
“I didn’t want to share a room with someone else while paying so much money,” she said.
Peters said she didn’t like communal bathrooms in dorms because she did not feel comfortable taking baths there.
Some freshmen plan to move into apartments next year, while others will choose to stay on campus.
“Living on campus is more convenient; you’re more aware of events that are here, and it’s easier to form study groups with other people on campus,” said kinesiology freshman Ashley Watson.
Watson said she plans to live in West Campus Apartments next year.