One of the least talked about but biggest changes that occur when moving from a dorm to an apartment happens when you trade an RA for a Landlord.
Every apartment complex has a landlord figure. In some it may just be the staff in a leasing office or an office manager behind a desk. Even if they aren’t called the landlord, they control your ability to live.
Unlike an RA, a landlord has no responsibility towards monitoring your lifestyle. As long as your actions don’t interfere with the quality of the apartment, you’re free to do as you please.
This means that if you skip all of your classes for an entire semester, the landlord won’t care. If the rent is paid then you’re free to do almost anything you please. Make sure to read the fine print on your lease to see exactly what the restrictions are before you get to crazy.
Also, chances are that your landlord won’t be your neighbor. While your RA was a few doors down, your landlord will probably be a phone call away. Late night emergencies will require 24/7 maintenance or you having to wait until the next business day.
On top of that, your landlord probably isn’t a college student like your RA was so they will expect you to act mature and responsible. Don’t be an idiot.
With great freedom comes great responsibility.
Keep that in mind when making the switch because yes, it will be a lot of fun but it is also a new level of work.
For a better idea of things that change when you switch from a dorm to an apartment, check out this article:
Equal Housing Opportunity
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I found your article quite interesting. Thank you for posting.