MM #5: The First-Year Illusion

A caveat inherent with large state institutions seems to go unnoticed: the college which is on display during campus tours has a shelf life of about nine months. Everything begins as expected, and the student emulates the people shown in the brochures. It's all togetherness, ballgames, community, and a sense of belonging to something bigger than oneself.

Then, the switch flips. As shown in the chart of the Final Four schools above, no less than seismic proportions of students move off campus.

Why?

Many times, students don't have a choice; their institutions either don't have or don't make room for them. With others, the cast change is a matter of student culture or tradition. See ya, designer matching duvet sets! Lazy river, we hadly knew you. Little food delivery bug, don't cry; I'll still trip over you on my way to class. But, you know, get out of my way. There's a crappy apartment 3 miles away with my name on it.

What's the point?

There's nothing wrong with living off campus. I simply urge parents and students to view their prospective colleges through a lens which can see further than next year. Out-of-state students, in particular, need to be savvy about the reality of student life. They are less likely than their in-state peers to know what to expect at this school and in this town. Admissions sells the first-year experience. You need to ask around to learn more about the majority of the commitment you are making.

All food for thought...until the finals!