I just received an email regarding submitting a UF Housing application after I sent in my freshman app for Summer 2017. I’ve done some research mainly on off-campus options such as Ivy House and Windsor Hall, but I’m hesitant about what I may be getting if I decide to reserve a room at one of these places. Is it worth the money? Really better than the traditional UF dorms? Are they an enjoyable place to live? Trimark also requires a deposit of $250 (which is refundable if I don’t get accepted into UF) but nonrefundable if I do get accepted and choose to attend/live elsewhere. UF is my first choice but since I’m not entirely sold on Windsor/Ivy, I’m a little hesitant to drop the $250 deposit.
I’ve never really considered traditional dorm-style, communal bathroom type of living, but I’m wondering if I should still submit a UF Housing application anyway? Is it refundable if I do not get accepted?
Aside from UF Housing, what other close-to-campus options are there?
I’ve talked with some parents that have had children staying/stayed at Windsor, and they said they liked it.
It really is worth staying on campus/near campus that first year, as it’s makes finding friends a lot easier. If you can, try to put up with the communal bathroom. Once you move into an apartment style living, you’ll likely have very little to do with your neighbors.
Suggest you submit the housing app for UF. The fee is only $25. Yes it’s non refundable but you will have left the option open in case you decide next spring to try the dorm. Most kids we know loved the dorms because they made so many friends while living there. Something to consider.
I paid the $25 housing fee. Even though I probably won’t get accepted/attend, I like that I can have a sense of security.
I think that’s a good idea soyunchico. Cover your bases!
I’m begging you to submit the housing deposit LOL (for on campus). We did not do this, thinking our son would not get into UF ($25 is not that big a gamble looking back), and our son was lucky to find someone to pull him in. We, too, never thought he would do well in a traditional dorm. Guess what - he loves it! It really can be worth it to live on campus.
Windsor singles book pretty quickly if I remember correctly.
Best of luck!
I would think Ivy and Windsor halls are nicer. The communal bathrooms are awful with only 3 toilets for 26 girls. They are within walking distance. Most kids move off campus after freshman year for a reason!
It is an incorrect perception that living on campus helps you to make more friends. The meal ticket is called “the Freshman mistake”.