Are you a Pointer that is becoming eligible to live off campus and have no idea where to start? Keep reading and learn some helpful information!
First, you need to find out if you are eligible or not to live off campus. The University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point requires that students two years or less out of high school live on campus. For most traditional students, this means that off- campus living can begin your junior year.
Discuss who you want to live with. Talk to friends about their plans for the upcoming year and decide who you want to be roommates with. Traditionally, the bigger the group, the cheaper the rent. However, this can also make it more difficult to find living options, because there are not a lot of places available with more than five bedrooms. Put careful consideration into your roommate selection process because the type of people that you live with can make or break your off-campus housing experience.
When you know who you want to live with, it is important to discuss with everyone to review expectations. This is a big step, and for a lot of people, it will be their first time living alone. Figure out what people’s budgets are, the accommodations they expect their living place to offer, etc.
People usually begin searching for off-campus housing in the fall of the year before they can live off campus. For example, in September/ October of your sophomore year, you should begin looking at places to live for your junior year, and in the fall of your junior year, you have to decide if you want to resign your lease for the same place or find somewhere new to live. Places can go quickly, so it is best to stay on top of the housing search.
There are a couple of online resources available for finding housing. There are multiple “off campus housing” or “for rent in SP” Facebook groups to join. Here, landlords will post their listings and make it super simple to see photos of the location and get in contact to schedule a tour. Another helpful online resource is the website pointoffcampus.com
Once you have done your research, you and all your roommates have toured the location, and the lease has been signed, you can begin planning your future in your new home! Converse with your roommates to decide who is bringing what items and how bigger things like a couch and TV will be divided up.
Living with your best friends can be one of the best parts of your college career. Enjoy your newfound independence and have fun Pointers!
