Off-Campus Student Services

The “Off-Campus Living 101” presentation focuses on providing a better understanding of navigating the process of moving off campus and what to look for prior to signing a lease.

Learning Outcomes

The Off Campus Living 101 presentation supports University 101 learning outcomes:

II. Help Students Discover and Connect With the University of South Carolina
a. Identify appropriate campus resources and opportunities that contribute to their educational experience, goals, and campus engagement.
Because of the Off Campus Living 101 presentation, students will be able to identify our office as a campus resource that will be able to help them find off-campus living options.  In addition, students will see OCSS as an ally in answering questions and addressing concerns.  Being comfortable and in a healthy living situation will give students the opportunity to students to thrive in the educational experience, accomplish goals, and stay engaged on campus.

III. Prepare Students for Responsible Lives in a Diverse, Interconnected, and Changing World
c. Describe and demonstrate principles of responsible citizenship within and beyond the campus community.
Being a responsible citizen is a fundamental aspect on living off campus.  Students that are respectful of those around them, especially to neighbors and property representatives will better showcase the University and its values.  We believe that being a good neighbor is the first key to success when living off campus.

As a result of attending this presentation students will be able to:

• Decide whether living off campus is the right choice for the student.
• Communicate the pros and cons of living off campus.
• Know when to start looking for off-campus options, as well as when to sign a lease.
• Know what to consider prior to signing a lease.
• Understand different types of leases and what lease terms mean.
• Recognize the importance of city codes and ordinances.
• Identify components of what it means to be a good neighbor.
• Contact Off-Campus Student Services for additional information, as well as know how to access the office’s resources

Presentation Outline

• Is living off-campus right for you?
  • Is it worth it?
  • When do I start my search?
• What to consider when searching
  • Types of leases
  • Understanding a lease
    
  • Lease terms
• Class activity - Which off-campus option do I prefer?
  • Student given six different housing options with different characteristics, prices, and terms. Students decide which they prefer, as well as questions that they would ask about the property.
• Lease scenarios

  • Actual examples of lease terms are given to students to give them a better idea of what a lease will look like, as well as items to pay attention to when reviewing their own leases.

• City codes
• Be a good neighbor
• Finding off-campus housing
• Off-Campus Student Services resources and services available
• “Any questions?” and office contact information

Presentation Length
50 minutes or 75 minutes