Research has shown that students who live on-campus earn a higher grade point average than their off-campus counterparts over the course of their academic career. Further, students that live on campus graduate at a higher rate than those that live off-campus.
In addition to a higher degree of academic success, students who live on campus tend to have a greater connection to the University, are more involved with the community, and take advantage of the services and extra-curricular activities more often than their commuting counterparts. And then there are the friendships and bonds you will make living in on-campus housing.
Still unsure? Here is a list of reasons why living in on-campus housing helps complete anyone's college experience:
Convenience and Value
The time spent commuting to and from the campus is time that could be spent in class, studying for exams, connecting with the UMass Lowell community and making friends and memories. Living on campus provides you with a fully furnished room, a food plan and access to all the university and the City of Lowell have to offer.
Focus on Academics
Residence halls offer a supportive academic environment. The focus is on providing the best possible environment, where students can excel in and out of the classroom and bolster their ability to participate in extracurricular and social activities.
Access to Library, Labs and Other Academic Services
Students who live on campus have the opportunity to spend more time in the academic labs, computer labs, libraries and the Centers for Learning and Academic Support Services (CLASS).
Student Services, Clubs and Organizations
In addition to academic support services, students living on campus are more likely to utilize other campus resources such as the Campus Recreation Center and participate in recreational sports. In addition, the University offers over 250 clubs and organizations. And although these opportunities are open to all students, on-campus students are more likely to take advantage of what is offered.
Independent Living
The opportunity to live on-campus provides students with the challenge of living on their own; to participate in activities and balance their time in a way conducive to academic and personal success. Students will develop the life skills and experiences needed to excel after graduation.
Friends and Memories
Everyone has heard that "the friends you make in college will be the friends you have for life" and our on-campus community and alumni would agree. Living on-campus provides the opportunity to meet new people, find your community and share an academic and social life.
Academic and Leadership Opportunities
There are many opportunities to be a leader on campus including joining the Residence Hall Association (RHA) and the National Residence Hall Honorary(NRHH). In addition to the social activities, there are many career development and academic success programs sponsored in the halls, as well as recreational and cultural awareness programs.
Transportation Services
Transportation Services will bring you from campus to campus seven days a week. Any activity the University has to offer is only a quick shuttle trip away.