The vital question on where to live

Header image for Interrobang article CREDIT: MITCH VOLLMER
"FOR RENT" signs can be seen more than ever since the school year is near its end.

Students are most often concerned with only a few things: what’s going to be on the next test, what they are going to eat and what bus is going to take them downtown. However, there is still one crucial piece of information that can sometimes be overlooked until the last minute, and that is where they are going to live.

With the school year winding down to its final weeks, new and returning students need to be focusing on where, and with who they are going to be living. “FOR RENT” signs have begun appearing more around Fanshawe’s neighbouring townhouses, and with that has signalled for students to begin planning their living expenses, which can for some be the most stressful part of a new school year.

Glenn Matthews, the housing mediation officer at Fanshawe, said that renting a home in London is a five-step process broken down to costs, roommates, accommodations, leases and lifestyles.

“You need to look at whether the place meets your basic needs in ... number of bedrooms, location, safety, etc.,” Matthews said.

Generally speaking, students have a few options on where they choose to live, but one of the biggest deciding factors is on how close to the school they want to be.

“We are confident in telling students that you save about $100 per month per bedroom if you live a 10-minute bus ride away from the College as you will pay a premium to be within walking distance of the College.” said Matthews.

Taking the bus can often be a hassle and having a complicated time schedule full of breaks between classes is where living close to school can be beneficial.

A student on a tight budget can also save money on food when given the option of running home in-between breaks to eat. However, living close to a school isn’t always the best option, depending on your lifestyle.

With reference to Fanshawe’s student neighbourhood, living close to the college has become a hotspot for those who love the 24-hour party lifestyle. With that, one may experience late nights full of beers and blasting rave music until the early morning sun pierces through the window. At this point, living a walking distance from the school can feel too good to be true.

This is where most will want to consider the option of a home further away from the college, which most often entails the use of a bus.

“Since a bus pass is included in the tuition, many students look along bus routes to find their housing,” Matthews said.

Choosing to live further away from the college will support a relaxed lifestyle by not having to constantly worry about what party the neighbours are throwing next. This gives more options as to what surrounds them.

Living closer to downtown also gives the freedom of shopping and convenience, as well as a closer route to groceries and appliances. However, what accompanies this is the knowledge of a bus schedule or access to a car.

In the end, what a student needs to consider most is where they will feel most comfortable living and what home they feel will fit their lifestyle. However, for anyone still unsure about their living quarters, they can contact offcampushousing@fanshawec.ca with any questions they may have.