Even if you live off campus, you can feel at home there

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

 

Living off campus provides many advantages, such as access to home cooked meals, a free room, daily family encouragement, laundry room access and no odd roommates (except maybe a sibling. But at least it’s a weirdo you know.) You have more independence while enjoying more support than on-campus students.

One of the downsides to living off campus is feeling less connected to your school and classmates. It may feel like you’re “less than” students who live on campus. And can feel like you’re the last to know about what’s going on.

Try these ways to bond to your school:

• Get involved in something in person, whether it’s a club, organization, sports team or other endeavor. Peruse your school’s website and social media to find what’s available. Joining a group is a great way to meet more people and spend some more time on campus. Select one group that aligns with something you enjoy and perhaps another that is involved with something you want to learn more about.

• Attend your school’s special events. It’s less commitment than membership with a school group yet it still helps you mingle with other students. As with joining a group, attend both events you’re familiar with and some you aren’t. You may feel surprised at what interests you and who you meet.

• Become a fan. If you enjoy watching sports, regularly attend your school’s events to cheer on your team.

• Study on campus. You can use the school’s resources and may have a few chance interactions with other students. You could also join a study group that meets on campus or study with others more informally as the need arises.

• Sign up for all your school’s social media accounts. You’ll have your finger on the pulse of the school and learn about upcoming events, any schedule changes, new on-campus organizations and more.

• Volunteer on campus. Working for a cause helps you form friendships with like-minded students while doing good.

• Meet with professors for help as needed. Sure, you could discuss issues via phone or email, but if you have a chance for a face-to-face meeting, it can help you better communicate your academic goals and needs.

• Just hang out on campus. You may not have a particular purpose in mind, but spending time on campus can help you feel more like you belong. So, grab your college shirt and stroll your campus. You belong here too.