Apartments are more suited for people who like space and privacy. You can get one all by yourself or hand-pick a roommate or two to share the bills. There is often more privacy, because there are no RAs living next door. The meal plan is sometimes still an option, so you can still have hot meals without cooking yourself – but then again, you also have a full kitchen at your disposal, so you can take full advantage of it. Sometimes apartments are covered by financial aid, so you don’t have to scrounge up rent money every month. Depending on your school and the complex you choose, you might have to pay for things such as Internet access, a land line, cable television, and electricity. Check the housing office or their Web site for a breakdown of apartment features and the tenant’s responsibilities. Most dorms are furnished; many apartments are BYOES (bring your own electrical spool – the number-one coffee-table choice of college students all over America). Remember to factor in the cost of furnishings and appliances before you make a major decision.

THE BOTTOM LINE: apartments are ideal for upperclassmen; students who’ve been around and learned the routines. There are a few added responsibilities on your end, but that’s all part of growing up and becoming a mature adult. Sadly, you can’t just look at the monthly rent charged to you by the university: there are other factors. Such as: Meal plans, Electricity and Transportation. This is especially relevant if you decide to go off-campus for housing. If nothing else, you have to factor in the time required to get to classes and work from your room/apartment.