shortcut to content
Minnesota State University, Mankato
Minnesota State University, Mankato

Latest information about COVID-19 and the campus community

×

Living on or off campus

Page address: https://web.mnsu.edu/family/resources/living.html

Whether your student decides to live on-campus in the residence halls, or live off campus, families can help students think about the benefits of both.  Here are some things that your student may want to think about as they make that decision:

  • What is the difference in cost to live off campus vs. on campus?
  • What items would be needed to live off campus vs. on campus?
  • How would they commute to campus (walk, drive, bus, etc.)?
  • What are qualities they want in roommates?
  • What qualities do they want in an apartment?
  • What are items they should look for in a lease?

On-Campus Housing Resources

Off-Campus Housing Resources

Scouting Out a Off-Campus Roommate

Student Activities does not make the match, but they provide a couple of resources that can help! To fill an open room, Student Activities allows student to Advertise With Them, they post the request in an online database. If your student does not have a place or a roommate, they can check out the searchable database. Another option is to have your student check with the property managers at the various complexes, as several of them maintain lists of tenants looking for roommates.

Off-Campus Housing Safety Checklist for Students

Fire Safety

    • Are smoke detectors working? Check batteries. Do not disable smoke detectors.
    • Are there fire extinguishers? Do you know how to operate them? Are they in working order? Can you reach them easily?
    • Think about an escape route from each room. If the doorway to a room is blocked, what is your alternative route? If you had to exit the room through a window, would you need a fire ladder?
    • The most common causes of fire are candles, cigarettes, and halogen lights. Never leave candles burning unattended and never put anything (paper, fabric, etc.) over a halogen light.
    • If wiring is exposed or if you notice problems with light fixtures or appliances, contact your landlord immediately for repairs.

Security Concerns

    • Check door locks to be sure they are strong and secure. What kind of security locks do you have? Chain locks are not as secure as deadbolt locks. Always lock your doors!
    • In a security building, do not leave exterior doors propped open.
    • If someone comes to the door, do not open it until you have positively identified the visitor. If you don’t have a peep hole, get one.
    • Ask for identification if someone identifies himself or herself as a repair person, police officer, or meter reader. Don’t hesitate to call and check identification or refuse admittance to a stranger.
    • Don’t hide spare keys outdoors or in a hallway.
    • Don’t put your full name on your mailbox or doorbell.
    • On campus and in the immediate surrounding area, use the University’s campus escort service at night or when walking through any area where you feel unsafe