<p>what are the pros/cons to these two options involving social life, walking distance to classes, cost, etc?</p>
<p>definitely call the housing office to confirm, but i think they’re offering guaranteed on-campus housing for the first two years to incoming 2012 freshmen. you guys are lucky!</p>
<p>On Campus
Pros (of Segundo and Tercero specifically):
Easy to meet other freshmen
Close to classes
Easy access to meals and don’t have to cook for yourself
A gentle transition to living on your own
Bathroom and living area are cleaned and repaired for you
You have an RA you can go to for any reason</p>
<p>Cons:
Ridiculously overpriced
Can be loud at times
Living with other people (can be a pro if you’re lucky)
Sharing a bathroom
Quiet hours (enforced at 11:01 when no one is trying to sleep; not enforced at 3 AM when your neighbor is blasting music)
DC food is overpriced and gets old
Can’t have a car</p>
<p>Off Campus
Pros:
Cheaper
You choose exactly where you’re living
You choose who you’re living with and how many people
You can make your own food (nice if you want to save money, choose your own food, or have dietary restriction)
Can have pets
More room for yourself
Can have a car
Can keep your bike inside for whatever reason (fixing it, worried it will be stolen, weather, etc.)</p>
<p>Cons:
More stuff to bring/purchase
Harder to meet new people
Farther from classes
No easy access to the DC (if you’re lazy about making your own meals)</p>
<p>Overall, I think it’s a good idea to do your first year in the dorms, but having your own apartment will be nice after that.</p>