Dormitory Living

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.