How Living on Campus Adds to the College Experience
Photo provided by Rampage student photographer Nathan LePere.
Living on campus is more than just a housing arrangement; it’s a crucial aspect that significantly enriches the college experience.
Bluefield University resident advisors (RAs) Gabriel Santos and Tyrone Woods, who live in Bluestone Commons, say the benefits of residing on campus extend beyond mere convenience. They shared their insights, highlighting the ways in which campus living enhances academic engagement, fosters social connections, and contributes to personal growth.
According to Santos, one of the key advantages of living on campus is the continuous connection with peers and professors. The proximity to classmates facilitates regular interactions, creating an environment conducive to academic collaboration and support. This close-knit academic community not only enhances the learning experience, but also provides a support system that is instrumental in overcoming the challenges of college life.
For students like Santos, who is from Brazil, residing in Bluefield, a small, rural town, presents unique challenges. However, living on campus becomes a vital source of support in navigating the difficulties of being away from home. The ability to share living spaces with friends contributes to a sense of familiarity and comfort, turning a seemingly isolated location into a thriving social hub.
As Woods notes, “the small-town atmosphere fosters a tight-knit community where students feel more at ease approaching classmates for help, creating a conducive atmosphere for academic collaboration.”
Santos said being part of a sports team further emphasizes the benefits of campus living.
“The proximity to teammates not only strengthens team dynamics, but also builds deeper connections and friendships,” Santos said. Living together fosters a sense of camaraderie that extends beyond the sports field, contributing to a more fulfilling college experience.
Living on campus also facilitates active engagement with school activities. Santos said the advantage of being in close proximity to events allows students to participate more readily. This involvement creates a sense of belonging and pride in the campus community, enriching the overall college experience.
In addition to academic and social benefits, campus living plays a crucial role in personal growth. Both Santos and Woods emphasized that facing and overcoming challenges on campus contributes to increased maturity. The exposure to various situations and the need to find solutions independently fosters resilience and self-reliance, offering invaluable life lessons that extend beyond the academic realm.
In conclusion, the experiences shared by Santos and Woods highlights the advantages of living on campus. From academic success and social connections to personal growth, campus living is a holistic contributor to a transformative college experience.
“Living on campus is not just a housing choice, but a journey that teaches valuable life lessons and shapes individuals in ways that extend far beyond the college years,” Woods said.
Prospective Bluefield University students and even current BU students who live off campus, should consider giving living on campus a try. It might just be the key to unlocking a truly enriching educational journey.