Students show frugality at housing fair

Despite the poor economy and financial struggles of many students and their families, turnout at Wednesday’s Fall Housing Fair was similar to past years and interest in different housing options remained steady, housing officials said.

Eighteen on- and off-campus properties were represented at Wednesday’s event, which was held in the Union. The fair offered informational booths for living options including dorms, apartments, houses and co-ops.

Cathy Neuman, the assistant director of the Department of Student Life, said she was pleased with the turnout of about 1,000 students.

“It was steady all day,” she said.

Although attendance at the fair was consistent with past years, some students were more concerned with costs, rather than amenities.

“I don’t need a pool or free tanning,” said Tara Bradsher, a genetics and Spanish major. “I just need a basic apartment.”

Bradsher said living off campus appeals to her for a variety of reasons.

“One, it’s cheaper,” Bradsher said. “Two, there’s more space. Dorms can be a little cramped.”

Some of the housing representatives noticed the students’ cost concerns as well. Brandon Reinkensmeyer, the director of marketing for Campus Village Communities, 1151 Michigan Ave., said students are focused on the price tag more than anything else.

“People are more rate-conscious,” Reinkensmeyer said. “They are willing to sacrifice amenities for lower rates.”

Reinkensmeyer said the event is a good way to fill apartments that haven’t been leased.

“It’s an effective source,” Reinkensmeyer said.

“We’re normally full by Thanksgiving. This expedites the process.”

Kristy Currier, a civil engineering senior and chairperson of ASMSU’s Academic Assembly, has lived off campus for the past three years and said living off campus is a challenge.

Currier was at the event as a student experience representative who answered housing questions to other students.

“It’s been tough living off campus with how much housing prices have gone up,” Currier said. “It’s ridiculous.”

Currier said living off campus is worth the extra cost because it provides her with a sense of maturity.

“There are on-campus regulations,” Currier said.

“It’s nice to have that feeling you’re growing up a little bit more.”