<p>My mind is set on going to a community college for two years and then transferring to a university. I live in Jacksonville, Fl but want to go to school in Gainesville, Fl. I'll be attending Santa Fe College, which doesn't have dorms. Where do most people that have/had the same plan as me live? How do they afford a place to live? I'm sure it's hard to get a job in a college town so that might take me a while...and my family can't afford to pay for my rent, hence going to a community college...anyone go through this as well?:(</p>
<p>As you probably know, most community colleges don’t have dorms. I don’t know the geography of Florida well it all, but I take it that Jacksonville is not reasonably commutable to Gainesville. I went to community college an hour from where I grew up, and I lived in the city with the help of my parents paying rent. You are going to need to find a room to rent, so I would start by finding a job out in Gainesville first and let your potential employer know your situation. I know it can be difficult to find a place to live and to find a job, but your chances of finding a place are much higher if you’re employed. Do you qualify for financial aid? Be sure to file your FAFSA as soon as possible, and definitely before the March 1st deadline. If you’re an independent student (24 or over upon school entrance, married, or have a child), you’ll be eligible for a lot more aid. Hopefully you’ll get some assistance whatever your status is since your parents can’t afford to pay your rent. Good luck!</p>