Tips for Adjusting to College Life

Starting college is a life-changing experience. You’ll have to learn how to live without the constant support of your parents, get along with roommates, and how to manage your time efficiently. Everyone has a different approach to adjusting to college life., but these basic tips can help you get through the first few weeks at school hassle-free.

Go to Class

Skipping class can be tempting, especially during the first few weeks when your absence is likely to go unnoticed. However, missing classes will only put you behind, making it more difficult to catch up. You’ll have to learn to get used to your schedule, and the best way to do this is to get into the habit of going to class regularly. Remember, you’re paying to be there, so you might as well learn something.

Learn How to Study

While you may have had a preferred studying method in grade school, in college, it may be helpful to learn some new techniques. You’ll have plenty of distractions at college that you didn’t have at home, but developing a regular study habit will help you ace tests and continue to learn. Instead of simply opening a textbook and taking notes, think about what you are learning and reading and try to apply it to real-life scenarios so that you can remember everything you learn.

Schedule Skype Meetings

College is the first time many students are away from home for long periods of time. It’s normal for you to miss your family and home environment. If you think you’re going to miss your family and friends, set up weekly Skype sessions so that you can see and talk to one another.

Get Involved

Getting involved in student organizations is a great way to meet new people and stay busy. These clubs can also give you some valuable experience that can be helpful for finding a job once you graduate.

Become Friends with Your Roommate

Many students discover a new best friend in their college roommate. You’ll most likely be sharing a space with someone, whether you are in a dorm or renting student housing Peterborough. The best way to make an awkward situation much more comfortable is to find activities that you both enjoy and spend time together.

Follow a Budget

Now that you’re on your own, you’ll have to manage your own finances much more closely than before. The beginning of college is often the first time many students are able to spend money without supervision. However, it’s important to keep your spending from getting out of hand. Consider creating a spreadsheet and track what you spend so you’ll have a visual of how much money you’re putting towards going out, food, and other activities. This way, you’ll know where to cut back when needed.

Set Goals

Starting college or a new semester is the perfect time to reassess your goals. Whether you want to go to the gym more often or complete all of your assignments on time, write down these resolutions for the new school year, and check back in on them regularly to stay on track. Your goals should be practical and achievable.

These goals don’t have to be far off in the future, either. You can set daily goals as well, such as finishing a long essay. Once you check something off of your list, you’ll feel proud of yourself and motivated to keep going.

Still looking for student housing? Secure your place at Severn Court today!

Tips for Moving Back Home During the Summer

 

When you move away to college, coming back home rarely crosses your mind. After all, there’s so much excitement around finding your own apartment and living independently that your mind shifts to the future. Then summer rolls around, your rent is up, and with a couple of months to yourself with no on-campus classes, it makes sense to head back home and check in with the family.

Of course, since you have moved out and had a taste of freedom, you can expect the dynamics with your parents to have changed in this time. It’s important to recognize this beforehand, as it can make all the difference in maintaining a positive relationship going forward.

Here are some tips for moving back home during Summer:

Talk About Expectations

Before you even make the move, it’s important to set some ground rules. Your parents have missed you, and are excited to have you back home, but they might not have considered how things have changed for you since moving out. From their perspective, they are just expecting you to move back in with the same rules that were in place before you left.

Have the conversation beforehand and let your parents know of any rules you are hoping might shift upon your return and why. Give them an indication of how long you are planning to move back in for, and why you are moving back. Addressing all these factors is a healthy way to restart the relationship and enforces clarity on exactly what both parties expect.

Set Boundaries

You’ve experienced the freedom of having your own room, staying up as late as you want, and enjoying privacy whenever you need it. Talk to your parents about your need for privacy back in the home, too. Of course, it’s important to remember this is a two-way street and they may have demands of their own. Let them set rules about who is allowed into your room. Once these rules are established, you can ask for privacy and earn their trust by following their rules as well.

Be Prepared To Help

You’re an adult now, and if you are going to move back and ask to be treated like one, then it’s only fair that you also help out around the home. You could discuss an amount for rent each month, or chores you can do to help out instead. Just because you are home doesn’t mean you should expect your parents to do chores for you. Instead, be proactive and show your parents just how independent you now are.

Respect Each Other

A satisfying home life comes down to respecting the rules and also respecting your parents. Sure, things have changed since you first moved out, but that doesn’t mean they can’t still work – just differently. Fighting, yelling, name calling and disobeying the rules will only lead to a tumultuous relationship. Remember, they are your parents for life, and if you want them to start seeing you as an adult, it’s important to act like one.

Even if your summer break doesn’t go as planned, you can take advantage of your return to school with apartments for rent. Peterborough, Ontario students are fortunate to have Severn Court Residence as an excellent option for off-campus housing, with fully furnished units perfect for Fleming College students.

Living On Campus vs. Off Campus

Living on campus vs. off campus: it’s the everlasting debate among incoming freshmen and returning sophomores. A case can be made for both sides. It all depends on your own personal preference.

To help you in your decision making, we’ve come up with a pros and cons list for both options.

Pros of Living On-Campus

Above all, the main draw to living on-campus is getting to be part of a vibrant student community. Living in dorms exposes you to other students and special events.The bonds and memories you form in your dorm will stick with you for a lifetime, even if it seems chaotic at times.

Another perk is the amenities provided in dorms and other on-campus housing. You usually have on-site laundry, Wi-Fi, vending machines, fountains, and even game rooms in some cases. These are included in the premium that you pay for the whole package.

On-campus housing options also tend to have security guards or residential advisors to help filter out delinquents in the building. Many buildings come equipped with safety features and phones to help keep crime at bay.

Cons of Living On-Campus

The number one drawback to living on-campus? The cost. Expect to pay almost double what you’d pay for a traditional apartment. The inflated cost is a result of all the amenities and benefits, even if you don’t take advantage of them. Cost is also the primary reason that most students don’t dorm again for their second year.

With all the students running around, partying, and doing the usual chaotic things that students do, on-campus housing can also have a lot of distractions. It can be a real challenge to get some sleep or even study for a final.

In fact, expect to sacrifice a lot of your privacy and space as you live with other students. Oftentimes you’ll hear people through walls, share bathrooms with other students, and have unexpected guests over.

Pros of Living Off-Campus

Off-campus houses are far more affordable and have a greater value. Since meal plans are not mandatory, and you don’t have to pay for other benefits like an RA or a vending machine that’s never in use; you only have to pay for your own rent and your own utilities. Seven Court Student Rez’s Sir Sandford Fleming College residence, for instance, does not require meal plans but does offer all-inclusive pricing and flexible lease options.

You’ll also enjoy far more independence. Off-campus housing may also be home to tenants that are not students. You won’t have an RA to rely on. You’ll need to figure out everything yourself, but the upside is that no one can tell you when to go to bed or to open your room for inspection. With that being said, there are some Fleming College off-campus housing options that have RAs in case you need them.

Getting an off-campus place is the best way to start truly living on your own. Dorming is like summer camp — a fun distraction for a while, but it doesn’t prepare you for true independence in the same way an off-campus location does.

Cons of Living Off-Campus

Living off-campus can occasionally be an isolating experience, as you won’t have events or students around all the time. For people that crave social attention, this can be a major hurdle. For people that relish in peace and tranquility, this would actually be a pro.

Without an RA, you can expect to have a lot more responsibility. If you lose your key, that’s on you to get a new one. Nothing says “welcome to the real world” more than having to look after yourself.

Ultimately, this decision will demand careful consideration, but no matter which option you choose, it must be appropriate for your current budget and lifestyle.

Common Mistakes Students Make When Choosing Housing

When it’s your first time renting, you are unaware of common traps and more likely to make mistakes. Worse still, landlords know this and may try to take advantage of you. By becoming informed before setting foot inside any student rentals in Peterborough, students can ensure they choose great housing.

1.     Only Looking Online

It is true that you can now find everything you need online — and that includes apartments for rent. However, if you only consider online listings, you may miss out on some excellent options. Ask your school for recommendations or check with a broker to discover rentals that other students may be missing.

2.     Searching Too Late (or Too Early)

You may end up spending more if you start your search too late. As the start of the semester nears, landlords know that your options are becoming limited and they can drive up prices. To make matters worse, more affordable units will have already been snapped up by savvier students.

On the flip side, starting to search too early is also problematic. Landlords will likely be unwilling to hold the apartment for you for more than a month. Usually, you should expect to start the lease on the first day of the following month. For this reason, the ideal time to search is between 24 and 30 days before you want the apartment.

3.     Moving In Right Before School

The higher demand for apartments right before school starts can also drive up prices. If you are able to move in slightly sooner, you may end up saving money. Plus, moving in a month or so early will allow you to settle into your home and start looking for a part-time job in the area.

4.     Being Inflexible

By all means only rent an apartment you find comfortable. If the place is dirty, damaged, or feels unsafe, you should look elsewhere. However, some students have expectations that are too high, especially considering how much they can afford. Think about what you actually need — and what you could live without.

Take the effort out of your search by choosing to live in off-campus student housing in Peterborough. Students have the option of Severn Court. Prices are affordable and you can pick a suite size according to your budget. Plus, there is no need to worry about sacrificing any amenities you want — everything you need is onsite, including high-speed Internet, laundry facilities, and security staff.

Practical Tips for Students Who Want to Save Money

Although it may be difficult, it is far from impossible to save money as a student. Saving money while you study is well worthwhile. For instance, this will give you more freedom to look for a job you’re going to enjoy after you graduate — you’ll have no need to take the first thing that comes along just to pay the bills. To ensure that you do save money, you need to have a plan.

1. Stick to a Budget

Figure out how much you have available each month and set a budget where you’ll spend less than that amount. Be reasonable with your budget, making sure that you have plenty for basics, other essentials, and emergency expenses.

2. Eat at Home

It may be tempting to buy your meals (especially if your cooking skills are lacking). However, with just a little practice, you can prepare close to the same quality as you find in restaurants. Decide what to eat according to the ingredients you can buy without overspending at the grocery store.

3. Borrow, or Buy Secondhand

If you have a friend who already took a class you are now going to take, ask if you can borrow the textbook. If this is not possible, look for secondhand materials — and then resell them once you’ve finished the class.

4. Take Advantage of Student Discounts

Student discounts abound in Ontario. Always ask local businesses if they have special deals for students. Plus, research online to find out which places offer the best discounts.

5. Cancel Subscriptions

Decide if you really need your subscriptions to streaming services. You may be able to borrow digital and physical copies of music, movies, and TV shows from your college or from other students.

6. Get a Job

Working part time can make a big differences to your savings. If you have no time to work a traditional job, side gigs can bring in some income. Babysitting, dog walking, and providing a moving service are all good options.

The most effective way of all to save money is to live in Fleming College off-campus housing. At a Fleming College residence like Severn Court, you’ll not only save money on rent, you’ll also reduce your cost of living. For instance, you’ll have no need to buy furniture, you’ll have your own kitchen (no meal plan), and you can lease a suite for just 8 months, if you wish.

Tips for First-Time Renters

As if you didn’t already have enough to worry about, starting college also means searching for rooms to rent in Peterborough. Students are often first-time renters, which makes the process that much more difficult. Luckily, if you know what you’re looking for, it’s easy to find the perfect place.

Calculate Your Budget

Before you start your search, you need to decide how much you can afford. Take account of how much you will be receiving from student loans and from your part-time job and decide how much you are willing to spend on housing. Remember to also include utilities and other essentials in your budget — and set aside an amount for having fun.

Note Down Your Criteria

The more flexible you can be, the better. However, you likely have some requirements. For instance, you may want to live alone, you may need parking (if you have a car), or you may want to be walking distance from campus.

Choose the Right Roommates

If you are happy to share, make sure to choose your roommates well. Your best friends may be incompatible as roommates, especially if you have different living styles. Think about factors such as how organized you are, your study habits, and whether you prefer to socialize or spend more time alone.

Visit Potential Apartments

Pictures can never tell you everything. Always visit a place before you decide to rent it. Only by being physically in the apartment will you be able to tell how much natural light the rooms have, whether there is any damage, and how clean the apartment is.

Don’t Get Scammed

Scam artists prey on inexperienced college students. As well as a landlord refusing to show you the place before you sign a contract or pay a security deposit, there are a couple of other scams to be aware of. For instance, if the price is much lower than other places in the area, there is probably something wrong with the apartment. Another red flag is a landlord asking for too much personal information, such as your bank account or credit card details.

Take the struggle out of looking for apartments for rent — Peterborough, Ontario students can live in off-campus housing at Severn Court. There are affordable options whatever your budget. Plus, you’ll be able to share your fully-furnished suite with a friend or take advantage of the roommate matching service.

How to Decorate Your Off-Campus Housing on a Budget

The chance to make your living space truly your own is one of the great things about living in off-campus student housing in Peterborough. Students moving into new apartments have little money to spend on luxuries, but (at the very least) you need to decorate the place to make it feel like home. However limited your budget, there are things you can do.

1. Focus on the Floor

Rugs are a great way to add comfort to your home. Plus, you can find them in any design and colour imaginable, which makes them an excellent choice for expressing who you are. Best of all, though, is that when you purchase cheap rugs, they’ll provide protection for your floor. This can help you avoid stains and other damage to the flooring, lowering the risk that you lose your security deposit.

Some places to have a rug include under your desk to keep your feet warm while you study, next to the kitchen and bathroom sinks, and in any areas that experience heavy foot traffic.

2. Invest in Multipurpose Furniture

It is difficult to find furnished apartments for rent in Peterborough. Students who aren’t lucky enough to snag a place with furniture should consider buying multipurpose items. For instance, a futon is ideal if you want both a bed and a couch in your room. An ottoman is useful for storing small items and also having a seat.

3. Hang Homemade Art

Avoid wasting your money on expensive artwork. Instead, make your own or ask one of your artistic friends to create something for you. There’s no need for homemade art to be anything spectacular. A collage of photos or a simple painting is ideal. Alternatively, you could hang something on the wall that you already have, such as a silk scarf or a flag.

4. Decorate Your Bookshelf

As a college student, you’re going to need a bookshelf. Just remember, bookshelves are not just for books — they are also ideal for holding personal belongings that say something about you. Use your bookshelf as a place to display trinkets or make it more functional by storing attractive items like hats, purses, or perfumes.

You can save money on decorating by finding a place that already feels like home. Severn Court offers students fully-furnished suites, equipped with everything you need. All that’s left is to add a few finishing touches to infuse the place with your personal style.

Tips for Saving Money in College

Even students who are working a part-time job find college life expensive. If you have no source of income, it can be extra difficult. Whatever your situation, you need to find as many ways to save money as possible without cutting out all the pleasures in life.

1. Buy Used Textbooks

New textbooks have a high sticker price. The good news is it’s often unnecessary to purchase them new. Students who are graduating or finishing a class no longer have any need for their textbooks and are often looking to sell. In fact, you may be able to save all your money by borrowing books from another student or from the college library.

2. Pay in Cash

Paying in cash makes it easier spend less. If you do need a credit card, never spend more than what you have in the moment and make sure you always pay off the balance in full each month.

3. Find Cheaper Housing

One of your biggest expenses is student housing in Peterborough. Students looking to save money should move off campus into rented rooms and apartments. This is almost always cheaper, even when the rental is right by campus.

4. Work Hard to Graduate on Time

Spending an extra semester in college will add to your expenses. You will not only need to continue paying for tuition, you will be missing out on the opportunity to work full time and start paying off your student debt. Do whatever it takes to pass classes now, even if it means more expenses in the short term, like tutoring.

5. Make Full Use of Campus

There are plenty of free resources and activities on campus. Check these out before seeking paid options. For instance, your college may hold free movie nights, social events, and fitness classes.

6. Buy a Coffee Maker

If you can’t manage without your morning coffee, purchase a coffee maker for your room or apartment. You could share with friends to split the cost and make it even cheaper. Even if you need to pay for the whole machine yourself, this is much cheaper than buying coffee on a daily basis.

The place to save the most money is likely accommodation. This means seeking out better student rentals in Peterborough and students can find off-campus residence in Severn Court. The housing is just for students, includes everything you need, and offers flexible lease options to help you save even more money.

How to Deal with a Difficult College Roommate

For most college students, living with a roommate is an inevitability. Unfortunately, some students may also find themselves eventually living with a difficult roommate. Oftentimes, you aren’t allowed to choose your own roommate in college or university. And while roommate preference sheets can be used to help place you with a compatible roommate, sometimes you can run into issues. Thus, you may find yourself living with someone you don’t like (or who doesn’t like you), don’t get along with and don’t share the same living standards. However, there are always ways to deal with difficult people, especially roommates. Below are a few of these ‘ways.’ 

Ask the Resident Advisor (RA) for Help

Difficult roommates are usually called such because they’re disrespectful, inconsiderate, irresponsible and unwilling to make or follow any rules. Report the situation and ask for advice on what actions to take or how to best remedy the situation. Most likely, the advisor will refer you to the housing department or a counselor. Just keep in mind that it’s okay to seek help and take advice in difficult situations. It could prevent major problems, extreme stress or a dangerous situation. 

If you’re looking for rooms to rent, Peterborough offers Severn Court Student Residence, where you can live with chosen roommates or be matched according to your lifestyle preferences and more.

Set Ground Rules

Ground rules can help make sharing a space as easy and pleasant as possible. They’re also the perfect way to express your personal values, living standards and expectations for sharing a space. Sit down with your roommate and set rules at the beginning of your residency. Make sure these rules include:

• ·         Expectations for cleaning and cooking (if applicable)
• ·         A chore chart, cleaning schedule and/or expectations for keeping your room neat and tidy
• ·         Guidelines for having guests
• ·         A schedule for studying, as well as guidelines for noise levels, visitors, etc. during these times
• ·         Preferences for curfews and sleeping hours
• ·         Statements on pet peeves, dealing with annoying habits, etc.
• Setting ground rules could be essential for getting along with an incompatible roommate, as long as they’re willing to respect and follow them. It can also be useful in all roommate situations, including living off campus and sharing one of the student apartments for rent Peterborough offers.

Be Upfront with Issues and Confront Them Head On

Passive aggressiveness can be counterproductive, frustrating, disrespectful and unnerving. So, if your roommate creates an issue, has bad habits or does something you don’t like, confront them head on. State your feelings about the issue and suggest working together to find a solution. Moreover, be patient and sure to present your feelings and approach him or her in a calm, respectful manner – learn your cultural and/or personal difference and practice understanding. Try to avoid leaving passive aggressive notes or messages and addressing him/her when you’re not in person. Most importantly, if you notice an issue, bring it up and talk about it right away. Allowing things to build up or fester can breed anger and contempt, possibly leading to explosive confrontations and/or more problems.

Tips for Success in College

Almost everyone finds a certain aspect of college tough. For some people, it’s the academics; for others, the social side. Whatever challenges you face, there are ways you can ensure your success.

Attend All Your Classes

Poor attendance makes it difficult to pass classes. Not only will you have missed out on lessons but teachers often grade according to commitment. On the flip side, if you always attend and are active in class, you’ll build a rapport with your teachers, which will help you build contacts that could be critical after graduation.

Take Advantage of Everything

Classes are just the start of what college has to offer. You also have a library for study material, academic advisors, tutoring services, and other support — and this is just the academic side. If you’re finding it difficult to meet people and make friends, check out the activities, clubs, and sports teams on offer.

Set a Study Schedule

You’re expected to be independent at college. Schedule some of your free time to study what you covered in classes and to review your notes. Experiment with different study techniques to discover the best methods for you.

Find a Comfortable Place to Live

Being happy where you live will impact all facets of your life. Remember, living on campus is only one option — many students prefer to search for rooms to rent in Peterborough. Those students who do choose to live off campus need to make sure that they live close enough to Fleming College to make it to class on time.

Create Goals and Rewards

Set realistic, measurable goals. Keep pushing yourself to work a little harder and to achieve a little more every semester. When you do meet your goal, reward yourself to maintain your motivation.

Manage Your Finances

You’re on a tight budget that needs to cover your living expenses, food, books, and entertainment. Keep a close eye on your expenditures to ensure that you always have enough money for emergencies — as well as for opportunities that arise to have fun with friends.

Finding a comfortable living arrangement is one of the most important tips on this list. When you’re happy at home, it’s easier to study, relax, and socialize. For most people, this means finding off-campus student housing in Peterborough. Students have the option of Severn Court, where they can live in an affordable suite, surrounded by other people with similar interests. Best of all, the housing is walking distance from Fleming College.

How to Deal with a Difficult Roommate

One of the things many students fear about living in an on or off-campus  Fleming College residence is that they may be assigned a roommate who, given the choice, they would never associate with. In fact, even if you get along, you may run into problems due to different personalities or just the need to live in such close quarters (especially if you aren't used to sharing a room). To make your living situation bearable, you need to have a strategy in place.

Talk About What Bothers You

It may seem like the best solution is to ignore all the small things that bother you. However, the danger of this approach is that everything upsetting you could gradually build up until it causes a major fight. Plus, you’ll have to grin and bear it every time your roommate does something you dislike.

A far better option is to talk about things before they become a big deal. You may need to agree to a compromise, but at least you’ll have cleared the air.

Have Real Conversations

It’s always better to talk to your roommate in person than sending a text. As you live together, you should have plenty of opportunities. By talking, you can have a proper conversation and both of you will have a chance to speak. Plus, there is a lower risk of misunderstandings if you can hear each other’s tone of voice.

Involve No One Else in Discussion

Even if the problem is about someone else — such as if your roommate’s friend is the one bothering you — involve no one else in your talk, at least initially. Adding extra participants increases the likelihood of an argument. Similarly, don’t bring your own friends to the discussion. Your roommate could feel attacked and will be less willing to change.

Seek a Mediator

If you are unable to resolve the problem alone, you can bring in someone to help, but it must be a neutral third party. The best choice is your resident assistant, as RAs are trained and experienced in dealing with these cases. Plus, if the situation can't be resolved, having made your RA aware of the problem early on will improve your chances of being able to switch roommates.

You can eliminate the risk of a difficult roommate entirely: instead of living in residence, consider student rentals in Peterborough. Peterborough students can have the same on-campus experience by choosing Severn Court. This housing is just for students and it’s directly across from campus. The difference is you’ll have your own bedroom in a fully-furnished suite.

Things You Should Do in Your First Year of College

Your first year of college should be an exciting time, reasonably free from the stresses that tend to become more frequent as you near your graduation date. This should be true whether you live off campus or in student housing in Peterborough. Students in all types of living situation should expect to enjoy (at a minimum) all of the following.

“Me Time” in Your Room

Your bedroom or apartment should be a sanctuary — a place you can come back to after a long day of classes and a spot where you can chill at the weekends. You should never feel uncomfortable where you live. Heading off to the library every time you want to study or seeking out other places when you want to relax is a warning sign that something’s wrong.

Socializing at Home

It’s fun to head over to your friends’ dorms or apartments to hang out, but your friends should feel equally welcome at your place. It’s normal for one friend’s room to become the main hangout spot at college, but you should still expect to entertain at your place at least sometimes. Similarly, you should be able to bring your dates back to your room as often as you go to theirs.

Enjoying the Occasional Culinary Treat

When school starts feeling overwhelming, an easy way to take the edge off your stress is with your favourite food. Unfortunately, this is only possible if you know that your groceries are safe from stealing hands. There should also be space in the kitchen for you to cook whenever you want, with no need to clean up someone else’s mess, first.

Studying in Peace

If you live on campus, it’s unreasonable to expect quiet all the time. You’re going to hear noise coming from others’ rooms — people are going to want to play music and talk on the phone, for instance. The problem is when it’s in your own room and the noise is too loud for you to focus. College should be about having fun, but it’s also essential to study hard if you’re going to graduate. This means finding peace whenever you need it throughout your first year.

If you’re missing out on any of the above, you may have a roommate problem. It’s time to start looking for apartments to rent in Peterborough, Ontario. Those students should check out Severn Court Student Residence. You’ll have your own space, but you’ll also be able to continue the college experience by living around other students.

Narrowing Your List of Options for Student Housing

If you're going to be going to college in Peterborough or anywhere else this year, you will need to find housing, and if you haven't already, now's the time to secure your place - apartments and suites are booking up quickly!

When it comes to apartments for rent in Peterborough, Ontario, there are lots of options. Sometimes, you can feel overwhelmed by your choices and not feel certain about which place will be the best fit. Let's take a look at your options:

Living On Campus

For some, the convenience of being literally minutes from class is a major plus and so an on campus residence may be a good choice. These residences are usually designed to suit students' budgets and may include access to amenities like a gym, study lounge, etc. In many cases, this type of student housing will also come equipped with some furniture, such as a bed and a desk, which will reduce the amount of furniture you'll need to move. One thing that some students don't like about living on campus is that you can be more limited by rules and regulations. Late night partying, for example, likely won't be tolerated in an on-campus residence.

Living Off Campus

Other students can't wait to find an apartment that's off campus and that will give them a real taste of independence. When it comes to off-campus student housing in Peterborough, there are lots of options, but you will want to make sure you visit the houses or apartments you're considering beforehand. Taking a tour will give you the opportunity to meet the landlord and to confirm the condition of the space. While some students enjoy the new freedom and responsibilities that come with living off campus, some initially find it difficult to adjust to being largely on their own. If you're considering an unfurnished apartment, you will also need to find or buy everything you will need and move it to your new space.

A great compromise for many students is to live in a place like Severn Court Student Residence, where you're just minutes from campus, have more freedoms and don't have to move a tonne of furniture, but also have the peace of mind that comes from knowing that the property is run by a professional management company. There are also several amenities that make student living fun and convenient, not to mention the price suits most students' budgets.

If you haven't already found an apartment, contact them to book a tour.  

The Pros and Cons of Living Off Campus

One of the first decisions you need to make when planning for college is whether you want to live off campus or in Sir Sandford Fleming College residence. Living off campus is appealing to many students, due to its many benefits. However, it does have its share of disadvantages, all of which you need to consider before determining if off campus housing is the right choice for you.

The Pros

A Private Space

Living off campus provides you with your own room and a bathroom you’ll only share with a couple roommates. If your roommates want to invite friends over, you’ll still have your own space. Your home will be quiet, making it easier to study, sleep, or just relax. Furthermore, you can get up early or stay out late without the risk of disturbing anyone.

Greater Freedom

Although there are few rules for living in residence, there are some restrictions that limit your freedom. For instance, you need to plan when you shower to fit around a large number of other people, you must eat whatever your meal plan offers, and there is someone there checking up on you. None of this is true when you live off campus.

It’s Cheaper

Living off campus is almost always cheaper, even when you include bills and food. Provided you are careful with money, you should be able to stay within your budget.

The Cons

You May Be Far from Campus

Distancing yourself from campus does lead to some problems. You may need to use your car or public transportation to reach classes. This means getting up earlier than someone living in residence. You’ll also have less opportunity to run home between classes, whereas someone living on campus could even go and take a power nap.

You’ll Have More Responsibilities

Living off campus means furnishing an apartment, paying bills, cooking your own food, and cleaning. These are good life lessons to learn, but some students prefer to learn them at a later date.

You’ll Need to Take Care of Your Money

To avoid high utility bills, you may need to cut down on some luxuries. You’ll need to be careful with the heating, take shorter showers, and make sure that you unplug electronics when not in use. You’ll also need to choose your groceries carefully.

Not all off-campus places offer just the basics or are far from campus. For instance, Severn Court Residence offers Fleming College student housing within walking distance of campus. You’ll receive a fully-furnished suite and services like onsite security, housekeeping, and support.

First Time Looking for Off-Campus Housing? Check Out These Tips:

College is full of firsts, which can include moving away from home and finding your first rental. While moving on campus can be a big step, moving off campus can be an even bigger step. Plus, for many, it’s considered the first step towards adulthood. However, off-campus living can be rife with new information and experiences. Foresight of new information and experiences can help make your off-campus life successful. And there are a few tips that can help you gain this foresight, including: understanding lease contracts, looking for safety, and searching in the right area.

Understand Lease Contracts

For new renters (and some experienced ones), little is more confusing than the lease contract. However, little is more important than reading and understanding this contract. Leases can be confusing, but there are some basic elements they all contain. Identifying these basic elements is the key to understanding the entire lease. This can also make the lease easier to read. When going over the contract, just look for the lines that explain:

·         Maintenance rules, schedules, and guidelines

·         Duration of the lease

·         Penalties for breaking the lease, as well as possible violations

·         Additional fees you may incur

·         The rental rate, payment due date, fees for late payments, payment options, and where and how the rent should be paid

·         Contact information for the landlord and/or property manager, as well as communication guidelines

·         Guidelines for obtaining roommates, having overnight guests, and subletting

·         Regulations for parking, including fees associated with parking or violating these regulations

·         Guidelines for altering the rental’s appearance (i.e. painting, changing window coverings, etc.)

·         Information about what your deposit covers, how it can be recouped, and what violations could lead to revocation

·         Rules and fees associated with pets

·         The grounds for eviction and how the eviction process works

This may seem like a long list, but each of these elements are important and can prevent you from experiencing rental hardships. However, if you're searching for apartments for rent, Peterborough offers Severn Court Student Residence, where you will receive the quality housing and most comprehensive lease out there.

Look for Safety

Surprisingly (or unsurprisingly), apartment safety is major selling point for many property managers. It should also be a major concern for all renters, especially new renters. Before signing a lease, make sure your apartment or room is in a safe neighborhood and offers standard, high-quality safety features. Some safety features to look for, include: fire extinguishers and/or sprinklers, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, designated fire routes or exits, basic security (e.g. security officers, cameras, alarms, security doors or gates, a secure lock or intercom system), functioning locks on all doors and windows, and basic safety procedures. Additionally, ask to have the door locks changed before moving in. And ensure your apartment is free of potential hazards, as well as safe inside and out. Finally, any rooms to rent Peterborough offers should also be rodent, insect, and mold-free.

Search in the Right Area

Location matters, especially when you’re searching for student housing. An off-campus apartment should be as close to the university as possible. It should also be close to public transit and amenities, like grocery stores, banks, restaurants, laundromats, etc. But student housing offered by places like Severn Court Student Residence offer plenty of ‘renter-exclusive’ amenities. However, it’s imperative to find the right housing in the right location. It could help keep you connected to university life, reduce commute time, provide reasonable rental rates, and foster independence.