To read Jasmine Baar’s opposing opinion, click here
Choosing to live on campus has been one of the best decisions I have ever made when it has come to Ferris.
I am currently in my last year here at Ferris. I have decided to live on campus every year, and have loved almost every minute.
Before moving to Ferris, I watched a lot of videos on what college life was like. From “15 Things I Wish I Knew Before Going to College” to “Things I Keep in my College Backpack,” I watched it all. I wanted to be prepared when I moved up here. Granted, no one can really be prepared for college, as it’s different and unique for every individual, but there was one piece of advice all these videos had in common.
That one thing was getting connected with other students by living in a residence hall. So, in my freshman year I moved into Miller Hall, excited to make connections and friends.
Part of the college experience is having fun with friends. I remember meeting so many people in Miller, talking with them, staying up late playing games and laughing a ton. It was connections like these that I had been wanting for a long time.
Unfortunately, COVID-19 hampered the year, and we had to move out. I had to leave campus without being able to say goodbye to any of the new friends I made. After this, all I wanted to do was get back to the fun community I once knew.
When the time came to sign up for a place to live on campus, I didn’t hesitate. I was craving interaction. Although we had certain restrictions, I was still happy to be around people and do activities again. I know for a fact that if I had chosen to live off-campus after my first year, I would not have the strong friendships I have today, I wouldn’t be a part of as many RSOs and I would have considered transferring schools.
However, there were a few moments in which I wished I lived someplace better. This was mainly due to the fact that I had been woken up at 3 a.m. every night by neighbors. Other than that, I’ve been happy living on campus. I’m never too far away from my classes or campus events, and I stay informed.
I know that on-campus housing is not for everyone, however, I have heard way too many individuals who live off campus complain about parking and how they aren’t meeting people or attending events. In those situations, I always say that it may not be such a bad idea to consider a dorm.
Yes, the dorms may be small and the walls are cinder blocks, but that doesn’t mean you have to make it your jail cell for the school year. Ferris also has the option for students to live in an apartment or a suite, which can be more comfortable for a lot of students.
I recently moved into a suite, and I am very happy with where I am. My best advice for other students is to look on the bright side. Try to jazz your space up a little bit and look into other on-campus housing options before completely stating you don’t like it.