Dealing with Leases?

<p>So apparently most of West Campus and North Campus have 12 month leases only, and they follow the academic year pretty closely. For those of you with experience, what if you plan on going abroad for a semester, or leaving for the summer? I know subletting is an option, but I've been told finding someone is practically impossible, especially for summer housing.</p>

<p>Are there ANY nearby apartments that offer shorter lease terms, and maybe ones that actually start a week or two before classes start? I know off-campus dorms, co-ops, and even on-campus dorms are an option (I think they offer only one semester long contracts, at least, but I may be wrong!), but I am asking specifically only about nearby apartments in this case! Thanks!</p>