1. Are ELI students required to live in campus dormitories?
- No. Many ELI students live in apartments or houses near the campus.
2. Which is better: living in a dormitory on campus or living in an apartment
off-campus?
- Each option has advantages and disadvantages. You must decide which is better for
you.
3. What are the advantages of dormitory living?
- It’s convenient. You are already on campus and can walk to class, to the cafeteria,
the post office, the library, the Payne Center, the football stadium, and anywhere
else you need to get to. A bicycle is useful, but you don’t have to have any “wheels”
to get around campus.
- It's secure. Your USM ID card is your key to your building, your floor, and your room.
- It’s economical. Minimal furnishings are provided, and utilities are included in
the cost. Each air-conditioned bedroom has 2 beds, 2 closets, 2 study desks, 2 chairs,
a small refrigerator, and a microwave oven. You must bring your clothes, bed linens,
bath linens, and your personal belongings.
- There is no kitchen to take care of. All dorm residents are required to purchase
a meal plan. The cafeteria on campus, the Fresh Food Company, takes care of all the
shopping, cooking, and dish washing. You just show up to eat! [For more information
about Eagle Dining, click here.]
- Laundry facilities are located in or near your dorm building. Use of the machines
is free for residents; all you need to provide is the detergent.
- You have many opportunities to talk and listen. You will have English-speaking neighbors
on your hall --- someone to talk to every day. While your friends in apartments must
make special efforts to find people to talk to and interact with, you’ve got that
problem solved!
4. What are the disadvantages of dormitory living?
- Dorm rooms are small, if you plan to bring lots of stuff with you, then you should
probably plan on renting an apartment. There is also not a lot of space to entertain
friends and guests.
- The Fresh Food Company is closed between semesters and during some holiday breaks.
Dormitory residents are assured of Break Housing during those periods, but you might
be asked to temporarily relocate to another dormitory. Food service, however, is limited
during the break periods. You will need to make alternate arrangements for your meals.
- Although each dorm room is equipped with a small refrigerator and a microwave, those
units are intended for your snacking convenience only. If you want to prepare meals
and have a fully equipped kitchen, then apartment living is for you.
5. How much does it cost to live in a dorm?
- Each dorm room accommodates two occupants, who pay approximately $2,964.00 per semester.
The unlimited meal plan costs approximately $1,925.00 per semester. Campus Post Office
box rental is $20.00 per semester.
6. Can I have a private room in a dorm?
- Because on-campus housing is so convenient and economical, demand is usually high.
It is not always possible to have a private room in a dormitory. Expect to pay higher
rates for private rooms, but only when such rooms are available. If you really want
your own space, you should probably find an apartment to your liking.