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MOVING OFF CAMPUS
The decision to move off campus can bring a new sense of independence
for students, but may also bring a new set of challenges. The following
are a few things to discuss with your student if they decide to move off
campus. Recognize it may come down to some other very personal reasons
for whether your student chooses to live on or off campus. Students are
encouraged to live on campus at least through their sophomore year.
Things to Consider if Moving Off Campus
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Independence
When living in a residence hall, students must abide by certain policies
established by the University for the safety and well being of all residents.
Living off campus provides freedom from some policies and allows
students to set their own standards in line with community standards. It is
helpful to remind your student that where they are looking to live will also
have policies they should become familiar with. Clemson students are held
responsible to abide by our community standards whether they live on or
off campus.
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Responsibility
Signing a lease, paying rent and utilities, commuting to campus, cooking
and cleaning will help students develop responsibility. This responsibility
will also begin to build the student’s rental history. Students will also need
to work together in living with roommates. On campus, there are support
systems within the residence halls that can be helpful in navigating
conflicts that may not exist when living off campus.
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Environment
Students who live off campus can often have non-student neighbors.
This experience will provide students the opportunity to interact with many
different types of people, such as working professionals, couples, families
and the elderly. It can also be helpful to talk about what may happen
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