<p>I've seen a lot of threads comparing the pros and cons of the diffrent freshmen dorms. But are all freshmen REQUIRED to live in one of these dorms? Or are we allowed to live somewhere nearby? Thanks!</p>
<p>You’re not required, but it’s recommended. A huge part of the freshmen experience is within the dorms. But staying off-campus saves a TON of money, so it’s a tossup.</p>
<p>hey I just had a question regarding roommates. Would it be more beneficial to room with someone within my own school at NYU if I wanted to become good friends with my roommate? Because I was admitted to CAS, and she to Tisch, I feel like we would have too many differences and interests. But besides the school thing, I think she would be perfect. So what do I do?</p>
<p>No, there’s no real benefit. If anything, it would broaden your horizons, wouldn’t it? THAT is part of the college experience.</p>
<p>Does staying off campus really save money, even paying for rent and your own food?</p>
<p>For anyone already at NYU - could I get some advice on what the ‘good’ freshman dorms are?</p>
<p>fghtffyrdmns: (Fight off your demons?)
Whether or not you can save money by going for off-campus housing depends on what your NYU living situation would have been and what your standards are. If you are in a low-cost triple in a standard dorm room ($8416/academic year or $935/month) or a low cost triple in Rubin or Brittany ($6620/academic year or $733/month) it is highly unlikely that you can find off-campus housing for less. If you are in a standard two person room in a suite ($11720/academic year or $1220/month) or in a single in a multi-person suite ($13,862/academic year or $1540/month) you might well be able to do better, given the current depressed rental market in some areas of Manhattan/NYC. Bear in mind that although off campus rentals rates usually include the cost of heat and hot water, you generally have to pay your own electric (lights, appliances, AC in summer) and cable, both of which are included in your dorm rate. You will also have to figure in increased transportation costs to and from campus unless you are lucky enough to find something in walking distance. Greenwich Village, West Village, SOHO, Tribeca, Chelsea, and the Union Square area are all very expensive, in part because of their proximity to NYU. Right now the best deals are available in the Financial District, East Village, LES, Upper East Side, and Harlem, as well as in parts of Brooklyn and other bridge and tunnel locations, so you would likely need to budget for a monthly subway pass. Don’t forget that you will probably have to sign a 12-15 month lease, obligating you for the summer months as well. You may be able to sublet your apt/room for the summer months, but likely at a reduced rate.
That said, going off campus can be a viable alternative if you really do your homework and are willing to commute. And for some who have endured roommate issues or who just can’t cope with the lack of privacy/quiet inherent in dorm living it can be a life saver.</p>