Hi! I was just accepted to Chapel Hill Class of 2019 (still feels so weird to say, but YAY!!) and i was just wondering if someone could pretty much explain my first year housing options for me and also offer some subjective advice.
What is the best place to live on campus freshman year?
What is Granville Towers? Does it cost extra to live here?
Thank you so much in advance!! Feel free to give me any other advice
There is lots of information on this topic outlined on the UNC housing first year website. You should review.
http://housing.unc.edu/future-residents/first-year-students
Most first years live on South Campus in one of the high rise dorms.
Granville does cost more, but, has it’s own meal plan and dining hall. The proximity to Frats and Sororities attracts a lot of Greeks as residents. I don’t think it is the greatest option for a first year because you are really far away from the majority of other first years who will be down on South Campus. I think you miss out on the first year social dynamic (everyone looking to develop new friendships, first year social programs, etc).
One other consideration regarding Granville Towers. There is a major construction project at University Square that will begin with demolition in September and will span 18 months.
In a recent local article the developer said, “Obviously safety is our first concern but also being a good neighbor is a concern, We are going to create a lot of dust and debris. It’s going to be a two-year process".
Gordon Merklein, executive director of real estate for UNC, said one of the main concerns would be for the safety of the students living in Granville Towers during the construction.
It might be a good time to seriously reconsider Granville as an option.