Coming to University of Arkansas as a freshman was an eye-opening experience; I did not know anyone here and I knew I was not the most out-going person. But, the one thing that made this transition easier for me was living in the dorm. I lived in the Northwest Quad, a suite-style dorm.
Northwest Quad (Photo from Housing)
My resident assistant (RA) made sure that I knew that I could talk to her whenever I began to feel homesick. She would also facilitate activities in the building so everyone could go outside and really get to know each other. In the dorms there is an “open-door” policy (that is optional of-course) and allows you the opportunity to meet people walking to and from class.
Northwest Quad Dorm Room (Photo from Housing)
One of the main perks of living on campus is the ability to wake up and walk to class. Not having to worry about waking up an hour earlier just to get ready to catch the Razorback Transit and make it to class on time is a huge plus. With many of the dorms on campus, there are dining halls located very close nearby, and some dorms you do not even have to walk outside of the building. If you stay on campus meal plans are mandatory. This includes flex dollars that you can use at places like Starbucks, Club Red, and the U of A convenience store.
Northwest Quad Dining Hall (Photo from Housing)
But once you begin to get older, students tend to want to live on their own away from campus. This is truly another experience all in itself. Being an international student, you already feel as though you are on your own and living off campus truly gives one a new sense of freedom. You can decorate the apartment to suit your personal style, you can invite friends over without having to worry about quiet hours and if you loved your roommate but want to live all by yourself, you certainly can.
There are both pros and cons of living on and off campus. I would suggest getting to experience both of them. They will make your college experience that much better and special.
To learn more about our campus communities, visit here.
-Devenney
