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COLUMN: Tips for optimizing off-campus living

Living on campus may put you close to other students, classes, Tiger Dining and the library, but living off campus definitely has it’s perks too.

With more freedom, easier access to your car and a full kitchen, living off campus can be one of the best experiences for students.

Just like all student housing, there are many ways to optimize your living experience. Here are some tips for making your living situation the best it can be.

1. Make friends with the people in your building

You can either make friends or enemies with your neighbors, and I highly suggest making friends with them. Having someone to feed your cat or water your plants when you can’t make it home will definitely make a difference on days when you’re stuck at work or on campus.

Also, I’ve had neighbors make extra food and text me asking if they could bring some down. Trust me, it helps to make friends.

2. Use the Tiger Transit app

A lot of students are scared of the transit. They think it isn’t reliable or takes too long. If you use the app Rider, it can make the whole transit experience so much smoother.

The app tells you when the next few transits are coming so you can see exactly when you need to head out the door in order to make it to class on time.

3. Take advantage of the free activities in your complex

Most apartment complexes offer free activities such as pools and gyms. Some even offer volleyball courts, tanning beds, and game rooms.

Take advantage of these. Go to the pool a few times a week with your friends, play a rousing game of beach volleyball with your neighbors and go lounge in the game room with your roommates for a change of scenery.

4. Actually cook in your kitchen

I have so many friends that bragged about having a kitchen to cook in but have never actually turned their stove on. Use the full kitchen to your advantage.

In dorm rooms, you live off of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and ramen, but once you move into a big-boy/girl apartment you need to finally make real meals for yourself.

Having your own kitchen can save you money by allowing you to cook food instead of eating out, and can also probably help you shed a few pounds if you choose to cook healthier meals.

Living off campus has it’s perks so be sure to use it to its full potential.

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