This article is written by Suka Junin
Student accommodation seems like the dream: you’re abroad, you meet new like-minded people, and who can forget the frequent social gatherings and parties? You’re at home away from home, and definitely not as alone as you think you are.
Of course, with those amazing highlights comes to some lowlights to living in student accommodations. Before diving headfirst into a tenancy application, here are some of the pros and cons you should consider before moving into a student accommodation.
Pro: It’s super convenient
As much as it’s expensive, it’s also extremely convenient. Living so close to campus with little to no commute time, it can be worth paying a slight premium for it. It also comes in handy when you have long breaks in between lectures and tutorials.
Student accommodations also tend to be located in close proximity to transport, food and shops, which makes day-to-day needs very easy. You should never have to feel lazy to get groceries or have an excuse to miss dinner.
Con: It’s expensive
Rent is generally expensive in Australia, especially if you’re coming from a country where a standard of living costs is lower. But student accommodation is very expensive when compared to living in a normal unit or house.
Generally, most students opt to share their flat or room and the rent is lower compared to having your own private studio room. However, considering the room size and general areas like the kitchen and living area, you will be paying a lot of money for very little space.
Pro: You get to meet so many new and different people
There’s a high flatmate turnover at student accommodations and because of this, there’s a high chance you’ll meet someone new every few months. More often than not, you’ll be surprised as to how much you learn about the different cultures and places your flatmates come from.
It’s not only the people you share a flat with but you get to mingle with others in the residence, too. Most student accommodations organise weekly gatherings like nights out on the town, barbeque weekends, and movie nights.
Con: Living with other student flatmates can be difficult
Most students staying in these types of accommodations are international students and there can often be differences in the way we live, which can prove to be challenging. This isn’t always the case and most students understand shared responsibilities like cleaning.
Because you aren’t friends at first, it can be difficult to speak out if there is an issue (playing loud music, never cleaning up after cooking) but you have to stand your ground because you pay rent and expect certain conditions. If it does get out of hand, always let one of the accommodation representatives know.
Pro: You can make the best out of what you get
And what you get is plenty. Student accommodations like Urbanest and Iglu have shared facilities like a gym, study areas, as well as around the clock security. Make the most of these as they’re not so common in non-student housing.
Con: Once locked in, it’s hard to leave
You would probably never want to leave your student accommodation, but if you choose to end your lease early, it can be tricky to get out of it. Make sure you plan and know how long you intend to stay, otherwise you’ll end up struggling to find another student to take over your contract (yes, it has to be a student!).
Before agreeing to anything, make sure to have a viewing of the place. Some flats won’t look like the photos shown on the website and you could be given a false impression, so it’s essential to check the accommodation out in person.
For every downside to living in a student accommodation, you should use these facilities to your advantage because where else will you find a more comfortable student life when you’re new to Australia?