As summer approaches, many students at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC) find themselves asking a big question: "Should I go home for summer or stay in my apartment near campus?" It’s a tough decision, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Let’s look at the pros and cons of each option to help you figure out what’s best for you.
The Perks of Going Home
Saving Money: Living at home can save you a lot of money. No utilities and probably free food too! Assuming your parents let you stay for free.
Spending Time With Family: Summer is a great time to reconnect with your family. You’ve been busy with classes, exams, and friends, and your parents might miss having you around. Plus, it’s nice to have someone cook for you or help with laundry again!
Taking a Break: College life is busy. Going home can give you a chance to relax and recharge. No papers, no late-night study sessions, just some good old downtime.
Seasonal Work Opportunities: Your hometown might have summer jobs waiting for you. Maybe there’s a job you’ve had in past summers or a family connection that can help you earn some extra cash.
No Roommates: Even if you love your roommates. It can be nice to have a break from them.
The Perks of Staying in Your Apartment
Independence: Living on your own near UWEC means more freedom. You’ve gotten used to making your own rules and living your life. Staying in your apartment lets you keep that independence.
Work and Internships: Eau Claire has a lot of local jobs and internships. If you’re staying near campus, you might find opportunities that boost your resume and career prospects. Plus, staying in town means no interruptions to your current job.
Friends and Social Life: Many students stay near UWEC for summer. You can hang out with friends, explore Eau Claire, and enjoy activities like tubing on the Chippewa River or going to local festivals.
Keeping Your Apartment: If you’ve signed a year-long lease, you’re paying for your apartment whether you’re there or not. Staying lets you get your money’s worth. Plus, you won’t have to worry about subletting.
Summer School: There may be opportunities to take advantage of a summer class.
No Sibling Rivalries: Sometimes reuniting with your siblings can be tough. Suddenly the sibling at home has to share such things perhaps as the bathroom and the television.
Kwik Trip and Menards Pay Well: These employers and many others have many part time job opportunities that fit well with a college schedule.
Things to Consider
Your Budget: Can you afford to stay near campus? Rent, utilities, and groceries add up. Compare the costs of staying to the savings you’d have by going home.
Your Plans for Summer: Do you have a summer job or internship lined up? If not, staying near campus might not be worth it. But if you’re working in Eau Claire or taking summer classes, it makes sense to stay.
Family Obligations: Does your family need you at home? Maybe a sibling needs help, or your parents would appreciate having you around. Think about how your presence impacts your family.
Social Connections: Will your friends be in Eau Claire for summer? Staying can be a lot more fun if you have people to hang out with. But if most of your friends are leaving, you might feel lonely.
Your Personality: Are you someone who thrives on independence, or do you feel happier surrounded by family? Knowing yourself can help you decide where you’ll feel most comfortable.
A Few Tips
Talk to Your Parents: Let your parents know your plans and get their input. They might have ideas or concerns you haven’t thought about.
Talk to Your Roommates: If they are going home, you might end up with an apartment all to yourself.
Weigh the Costs: Write down the costs of staying and the savings from going home. Seeing the numbers can make your decision clearer.
Think About Your Goals: What do you want to achieve this summer? Whether it’s saving money, gaining work experience, or relaxing, let your goals guide your decision.
Plan Ahead: If you’re staying near UWEC, think about how you’ll spend your time. Look for a job or plan activities. If you’re going home, consider how to stay productive and make the most of your summer.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to go home for summer or stay near UWEC is a personal choice. Both options have their upsides and downsides. Think about your budget, your goals, and what will make you happiest. Talk to your parents, roommates, and friends, and take time to weigh your options.
No matter what you choose, summer is your time to recharge and prepare for the next school year. Whether you’re hanging out at home or exploring Eau Claire, make the most of it!
Disclaimer
Hey there! Thanks for reading our stuff. We want you to know a few important things:
We're General Property Management LLC, right here in good old Eau Claire, WI. You can make an appointment to visit us. Our office is located at 703 5th Avenue #1, Eau Claire, WI 54703 or send written correspondence to General Property Management, LLC, P.O. Box 283, Eau Claire, WI 54702.
If you need to reach us, our email is contact@ec4rent.com and our phone number is 715-832-1200.
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Author
John Moss. After attending University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC), John made Eau Claire home where he and his wife raised their children, dogs, and chickens.
