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Mar 11

Must-Have Amenities for the Best Student Living Experience in Provo

By collegeplace News No Comments

Finding the perfect student housing in Provo can make a huge difference in your college experience. With so many options available, it’s important to choose a place that offers amenities that enhance your lifestyle, help you stay focused on your studies, and provide opportunities to socialize and relax. Here are the top amenities to look for when choosing student housing in Provo:

1. Fitness Center

A well-equipped fitness center is essential for staying active and healthy. Look for housing communities with modern gym equipment, free weights, treadmills, and even group fitness spaces. Having a gym on-site saves time and money compared to a gym membership.

2. Hot Tub & Sun Deck

After a long day of classes, nothing beats unwinding in a hot tub. Many student housing complexes in Provo offer resort-style amenities, including hot tubs and sun decks where you can relax, soak up some sun, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

3. Lounge Areas & Study Rooms

A comfortable lounge area is perfect for socializing, studying, or just taking a break. Many student housing communities offer designated study rooms with quiet spaces, high-speed Wi-Fi, and even free printing services to help students stay on top of their coursework.

4. Underground Parking & Bike Storage

Parking can be a challenge in a college town. Look for housing that offers underground or covered parking to protect your car from harsh weather. If you prefer biking, check for secure bike storage to keep your ride safe.

5. BBQ Area & Outdoor Gathering Spaces

Outdoor amenities like BBQ grills, picnic tables, and fire pits create the perfect setting for weekend cookouts and late-night hangouts. A well-designed outdoor space encourages social interaction and helps build a strong community within the complex.

6. High-Speed Internet & Free Wi-Fi

Reliable, high-speed internet is a must for students who need to complete assignments, stream lectures, or unwind with their favorite shows. Some apartments even offer free Wi-Fi throughout the property, ensuring connectivity wherever you go.

7. Fully Furnished Units

Moving into an unfurnished apartment can be a hassle. Many student housing options in Provo provide fully furnished units with beds, desks, sofas, and even kitchen essentials, making move-in day stress-free.

8. In-Unit Washer & Dryer

No one wants to lug laundry across the complex or wait in line for machines. Housing with in-unit washers and dryers adds convenience and saves time, especially for busy students.

9. Private & Shared Bedroom Options

Whether you prefer the privacy of a single bedroom or the affordability of a shared room, flexible floor plans allow you to choose what fits your lifestyle and budget best.

10. 24/7 Security & Controlled Access

Safety should always be a top priority. Look for student housing with 24/7 security, controlled access entry, and surveillance cameras for added peace of mind.

11. Game Room & Entertainment Areas

A well-designed game room with pool tables, ping pong, arcade games, and big-screen TVs can be the perfect place to relax and have fun with friends.

12. Walkability to Campus

If you don’t have a car, finding a complex within walking distance of your university can make daily commutes much easier.

13. On-Site Maintenance & Management

Having an on-site maintenance team ensures that any issues, from plumbing to electrical problems, are resolved quickly. Responsive management is key to a stress-free living experience.

The right amenities can make all the difference when choosing student housing in Provo. Whether you’re focused on fitness, socializing, convenience, or study spaces, finding a place that offers a mix of these features will enhance your college experience. Before signing a lease, take a tour, explore the amenities, ask about included utilities, and make sure the community aligns with your needs.

Feb 24

Love0

How to Organize Your Apartment with Roommates: A Guide to Harmonious Living

By collegeplace News

Living with roommates can be a great experience—if you’re organized! Whether you’re sharing a space with longtime friends or new acquaintances, keeping your apartment in order will help maintain a peaceful and stress-free environment. Here are some essential tips to keep everything running smoothly.

1. Establish House Rules Early On

Before you start unpacking, have a discussion with your roommates about expectations. Cover topics like cleaning schedules, quiet hours, and shared expenses. Setting clear rules from the start will prevent misunderstandings down the road.

2. Create a Cleaning Schedule

A clean apartment is key to a happy home. Divide chores equally and set up a cleaning schedule that works for everyone. You can rotate responsibilities weekly or assign permanent tasks based on preferences. Using a shared app or a physical chore chart can help keep everyone accountable.

3. Designate Shared and Personal Spaces

Clearly define communal areas (like the kitchen and living room) and respect each other’s private spaces. If you’re sharing storage areas, label shelves or bins to keep things organized and prevent mix-ups.

4. Manage Bills and Expenses Fairly

Decide early on how you’ll split rent, utilities, and groceries. Apps like Venmo, Splitwise, or a simple spreadsheet can help track expenses to ensure fairness. Setting up automatic payments for rent and bills can prevent late fees and awkward conversations.

5. Communicate Openly and Regularly

Open communication is key to avoiding conflicts. Have regular roommate check-ins to discuss any issues and make sure everyone is happy with the arrangements. If problems arise, address them calmly and constructively.

6. Organize the Kitchen Efficiently

The kitchen is often the busiest shared space. Use labeled containers for shared food items, assign cabinet and fridge space, and establish rules for cleaning up after meals. A rotating dishwashing schedule can also help avoid dirty dish pile-ups.

7. Maximize Storage Space

Apartments can feel cramped, so get creative with storage! Use vertical shelving, under-bed storage bins, and multi-functional furniture to make the most of your space. If you’re sharing a closet, consider adding extra hanging rods or dividers.

8. Be Considerate of Each Other’s Habits

Everyone has different routines and preferences. Respect each other’s schedules by keeping noise levels down during sleeping hours and using headphones when watching TV or listening to music.

9. Plan Fun Roommate Activities

Building a good relationship with your roommates will make living together more enjoyable. Plan occasional movie nights, group dinners, or outings to bond and create a positive atmosphere at home.

10. Stay Flexible and Adapt

Situations change, and flexibility is crucial. Be open to adjusting rules and schedules as needed to accommodate each other’s needs. A little compromise goes a long way toward maintaining harmony.

By staying organized and maintaining open communication, you can create a comfortable and enjoyable living space with your roommates. A well-managed apartment not only makes day-to-day life easier but also helps foster great friendships.

Nov 06

Love0

Ace Your Finals: The Ultimate Survival Guide for BYU Students

By collegeplace News

Finals week can feel like an uphill climb, but with a solid plan and a few life hacks, you can power through while keeping your sanity intact. Here are some top tips for surviving finals at BYU:

Create a Study Schedule (And Stick to It!)

As soon as you get your finals schedule, map out a study plan. List each subject and the amount of time you need to spend on each one. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks, scheduling breaks between subjects to keep your mind sharp. Apps like Google Calendar or Notion can help keep you organized and on track.

Prioritize Sleep

It’s tempting to pull an all-nighter, but sleep is essential for retaining information and staying focused. Studies show that sleep enhances memory recall and cognitive performance. Aim for at least 7 hours, even if it means wrapping up studying a little earlier than planned.

Fuel Your Brain with Nutritious Snacks

What you eat directly impacts your energy and focus. Keep healthy snacks on hand, like almonds, fruit, yogurt, and granola bars. Avoid too much caffeine or sugary treats, as these can cause energy crashes. Smoothies and protein-packed snacks are great ways to stay fueled without feeling weighed down.

Take Productive Breaks

Taking short breaks actually improves focus and productivity. Every 50–90 minutes, step away from your desk, stretch, go for a quick walk around campus, or do a breathing exercise. A change of scenery, like studying in different spots around campus—Harold B. Lee Library or the Tanner Building—can also refresh your mind.

Find a Study Group

Sometimes, studying with classmates can help clarify difficult concepts. Try setting up a group chat with classmates, or reserve a study room at the library. Just be sure to stay focused, set goals for the session, and avoid drifting off into unrelated conversations.

Manage Stress with Campus Resources

BYU has resources specifically designed to help students during stressful times. The Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) team offers counseling and stress management techniques. Or, visit the wellness center for relaxation exercises, including meditation sessions and yoga classes.

Limit Distractions

We live in a world full of distractions. Apps like Freedom, Forest, or SelfControl can block distracting websites, and turning off notifications on your phone can minimize interruptions. If you study well in a quiet environment, consider noise-canceling headphones or finding a spot in the library’s designated quiet zones.

Get Moving to Boost Focus

Physical activity is a powerful stress reliever. If finals week has you feeling cooped up, take advantage of the Smith Fieldhouse or head to the track for a jog. Exercise increases blood flow to the brain, boosting concentration and helping you sleep better at night.

Stay Hydrated

Hydration is key to staying alert and focused. Keep a water bottle with you and refill it throughout the day. If you’re looking for some variety, BYU’s Creamery has healthy drink options that are refreshing without the caffeine overload.

Reward Yourself

Plan something fun as a reward for finishing each exam or study session. It can be as simple as grabbing a Jamba Juice, watching a short show, or treating yourself to some ice cream. Looking forward to these little rewards can motivate you to stay on track and maintain a positive mindset.

Be Kind to Yourself

Finals week is tough, and it’s natural to feel a bit overwhelmed. Try to stay positive, avoid self-criticism, and remember that you’re doing your best. Taking things one step at a time will make the week feel more manageable.

Good luck, Cougars! With a little planning and self-care, you’ve got this finals week under control.