You might think it’s too early to start thinking about where you are going to live next school year, but now is the time! Drury University offers plenty of unique options, and there are considerations to be made, such as roommates, cost and amenities.

All housing on campus includes wireless internet, cable, a refrigerator and a microwave. Housing prices at Drury are directly correlated with which meal plan you choose. That being said, some of the cheaper housing options are the residence halls, which include Smith, Wallace and Sunderland.

Dorm life

In Smith and Wallace, you will likely share a room with another student. That may sound unappealing, but there are benefits such as their close proximity to the Commons. Smith also has a bathtub and recreation area.

Sunderland Hall allows you to have your own room, with only two students to a bathroom. Each floor has a room with built-in projectors, perfect for a cozy movie night with friends.

If residence halls aren’t your thing, Drury offers apartment-style housing to students who have been out of high school for more than one year.

Apartments

Apartment options include University Suites, College Park, Jefferson Park, Manley Hall, and Summit Park. Each option includes a full kitchen and living area, and is no more than a couple blocks from campus.

University Suites, one of Drury’s pricier options, offers space for up to four students, with four private bathrooms. It also includes an in-unit washer and dryer.

College Park has a variety of options, from limited one-room studios to four-bedroom units. The apartment buildings surround a lovely courtyard area. This is a safe option, as there is a Springfield Police Department substation on-site.

Jefferson Park North and South are two-bedroom, two-bathroom units. Each unit includes a patio or balcony. Certain units of Jefferson Park are unfurnished, pet-friendly and/or allow a non-Drury family member (such as a spouse or sibling) to live with you for a fee.

Jefferson’s western counterpart is made up of unfurnished one-bedroom or studio apartments.

Like Jefferson, Manley Hall allows students to live with a family member. Manley is mostly comprised of one-bedroom units, with a limited number of two-bedroom options as well. Perks include a dishwasher and covered parking.

Summit Park Leadership Community requires a special application process, as it engages students in a year-long community service partnership. As residents in Summit Park, students must volunteer with an approved organization for 15 hours a semester, and participate in a one credit hour leadership course. Summit is available for groups of four to eight students; however, sophomores receive preference.

Themed housing

Each year, Drury offers a variety of themed housing. The themes of these houses vary each year. In the past, houses have included themes such as the humanities, social justice, honors society and fine arts.

Often students are required to have a specific major and GPA, and are expected to host and promote events related to their theme. Houses are located in historic Midtown Springfield and often have a cozy, home-y charm.

#Roommategoals

All of these options are overwhelming, but even more overwhelming can be choosing a roommate. Holly Binder, Director of Housing, pipes in with some advice for students.

“Don’t assume that living with your closest friends is your best bet. Choose people who have similar living habits and whose communication style is compatible with yours. Be very honest about what you can and can’t live with when seeking roommates,” she explained.

Binder also asks that students pay attention to their emails as housing deadlines get closer. Housing sign-ups are spread out through February and March, often starting with themed housing and apartments.

Finally, watch out for housing sign-up information sessions. The first is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 6 at 4 p.m., while the second will occur after winter break on Thursday, Jan. 17 at 11 a.m. Both sessions will be in Lay Hall Auditorium. If you have further questions, reach out to housing@drury.edu.

Article by Delilah Gadd.