<p>i don't really like ucsd's housing mainly because of the meal plan and it seems kind of cramped. and im looking online and it seems that i can get a place for less than $650 a month in the area if i share with roommates. also on campus housing seems kind of expensive considering its 3 to a room and i don't have financial problems but i would like to save money if possible. </p>
<p>everyones always saying you've got to experience for at least your first year what it is to live in a dorm, but i don't know if i really want to and the experience isn't something that i've been like looking forward to my whole life. i see college as just a place to learn and maybe make a few friends.</p>
<p>so, if you were a freshman would you get off campus housing the first year? would i really be missing out that much? also, how is the parking situation, or is there a bus i could take in san diego that goes to UCSD?</p>
<p>I definitely wouldn't do it, but everyone is different. I had a great time in the dorms and met many of my best friends there. There's something about 3AM XBox tournaments and practical jokes that is uniquely the college dorm experience.</p>
<p>Anyway - If you live almost anywhere in the UTC area, you will be able to catch the shuttle to and from class everyday. I got around fine living in UTC my 2nd year without having a car. Parking permits are expensive, but many people drive from PB or Mira Mesa.</p>
<p>I didn't have a particularly great experience my first year in the dorms but if I had to choose all over again, I'd still choose the dorms. Learning to deal with people, the sense of community and waking up 5 minutes before class...hehe</p>
<p>$650/month is if you want to get a single...If you share you can get a room for $400.</p>
<p>You do know that you can choose apartments for your 1st year, right? (save ERC and Revelle) Plus the meal plan is a lifesaver, especially if you're a bio major. :)</p>