Do you have some tips for students on housing searches? Do you have any tips you would like to share? We welcome you to share them with us. Email your tips to: ocho@suffolk.edu.

Housing search

• Give yourself two to three months for a housing search.
• Visit our office to find out what resources are available.
• Decide your budget and what neighborhoods you want to live.
• Visit neighborhoods by day and by night before taking up an apartment.
• You can save money if you share an apartment with roommates.

Roommates

Living with a roommate can be one of the most difficult or rewarding experiences while in school. The key to living with someone is to remember that everyone has the right to live in a safe, clean and healthy situation, which allows him or her to pursue academic and personal endeavors. With that in mind, we have included some suggestions in hopes that your experience is a successful, healthy roommate relationship. Create a roommate contract when you move in with your roommates. It can help your roommates and you remember and clarify what was discussed and agreed upon. (View a sample Roommate Contract here)

• Take your time to find the right situation.
• Be honest and open about your needs, concerns and expectations.
• Get to know the person before you pass judgment.
• Share all the basic information, like hometown, major, family and interests.
• Discuss how you would set the apartment up and then do it together.
• Discuss what is shareable (food, computer, appliances, etc).
• When a problem arises talk about it with that person first.
• Establish guidelines about the following:
• Cleanliness, cooking and housework
• Study time, work schedules, privacy and guests
• Financial stability: bills, rent, food and phone

Safety tips

Living in a Boston apartment can create certain issues of security. By becoming more conscious, exercising common sense, and taking precautionary measures you improve your chances of remaining safe.

• Trust your instincts. They are the most reliable guides.
• Always lock your apartment door even when you are home.
• Never open your door to anyone you don’t know - ask for ID.
• Never leave your valuables in plain view.
• Always lock your car and/or bicycle.
• Keep windows locked when you are not home or sleeping.
• Keep emergency numbers by the phone or refrigerator.
• Know your neighbors. Choose someone in case of emergency.
• When walking, stay in a well-lit area and know where you’re going.
• Avoid traveling alone, if possible. Be aware, confident and cautious.
• Utilize Suffolk University’s Escort Program:

The Suffolk University Police department sponsors a walking escort program daily. (Dusk until 11:30pm). Students may be escorted between the main classrooms buildings, university housing and Park Street “T” station. If you need an escort, contact University Police at (617) 573-8333. Please make an effort to arrange an escort in advance, by giving your name, destination and time needed.