While some students travel around the world or across the country to attend university, many learners are lucky enough to live in the same city as their educator of choice.
While students from further afield have the options of living in Halls of Residence on campus, in private lets offered by agencies and landlords or staying with a local family, those situated in easy reach of their university have an extra choice, and that is living at home.
Where students choose to live during their university years is an important decision. Not only can it impact success in their studies, but also their emotional and physical wellbeing and future growth. Every student has their own unique needs, ambitions, financial situations and preference however, which means that this is ultimately a personal decision affected by multiple factors.
Here, we put students living at home while at university under the microscope. We’ll weigh up the pros alongside the cons to help students facing this difficult decision to make the best choice possible.
Pros of students living at home
Perhaps the foremost benefit for students who choose to stay at home is the financial savings this affords. Paying for rent every month while living on a budget requires organisation and discipline. Students that live at home don’t often have such worries with the roof over their head paid by parents and a fridge that is always full.
Living at home also mean that students don’t need to get used to living somewhere new. Home is a familiar place that comes with many comforts. From the warmth of living with people who aren’t strangers to constant access to life’s little luxuries, home is a known quantity compared to living beyond its bounds.
Parents and siblings are also present to provide a supportive network while studying. Always available for advice and assistance, some students appreciate an added sense of security at home which, combined with fewer money worries, can make it easier for them to focus on their studies.
Going to a university near where they live means that students already have a knowledge of their local area and can enjoy reduced travel time going to and from lectures.
Cons for student living at home
There are some downsides for students who opt to stay at home when they’re at university. Living at home during a time of change like going to university can present challenges for young people. With parents paying room and board they can exercise their authority, dictating how students behave when they study and socialise and limiting their independence. Students living at home may also have less privacy.
Seeing their peers experiencing more freedom can be especially difficult for students living at home. This creates a potential for conflict and can put strain on familial relationships.
Many young people look forward to having an authentic university experience enjoying learning about life on their own terms in their own way, and this often includes connecting with new friends in a house share and having fun. Students who choose to live at home may miss out on this opportunity and regret their decision in the future.
Students face socialization at university that aren’t helped by living at home. Many students find that living in larger student properties like house shares and cluster flats can help them get on with others and feel more comfortable meeting and connecting with new people. Students have their own individual room for privacy, but share common areas allowing them to take their time getting to know their fellow flatmates.
While living at home can negate financial concerns for students, it also delays them learning important life skills found through independence. From budgeting to being accountable for behaviour, living outside the home has many useful lessons to teach students.
Are you looking for student accommodation in Chester?
At Bed Student Rentals, we’re proud to be the top agency offering independent student property management in Chester. Whether your family home is in the city but you’re looking for an authentic university experience, or you’re coming to live in Chester to study, you can count on us for high-quality accommodation near campus and useful amenities. Get in touch with our team today to find your new home from home at uni.
Written By
Kate