There is a lot to be said about what defines the "college experience". There are the two-hour classes, cramming for exams, the "freshman 15" superstitions, the "best four years of your life," and much more. One of the biggest changes college can provide a student is living on campus. Living on a college campus provides students with a sense of freedom, responsibility, convenience, and maturity that is unique from any other academic experience. However, is it all just hype? Movies and television may make college seem like either a stress free or stressful environment.  "Living on campus is cool, but it's not like Blue Mountain State or anything. It's more about just the independence. You're able to make your own decisions, even if it's just something simple," explained freshman criminal justice major, Andre Fleming. This independence can be a drastic change for freshman students who, more than likely, would be living on their own for the first time.

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Roommates can also provide an easier social adjustment for students. "It's easier to meet people when you're friends with your roommate. It's more comfortable to talk and socialize when you're not just by yourself," explained Bueno

Those that commute to and from school may have somewhat of a different college experience. Living on-campus gives residential students the advantage of having every class within walking distance from their dorm. Those who commute have to deal with complications such as traffic, limited parking spots, impending weather, transportation, time management, as well as idle time in between classes. "The hardest part about commuting is just getting back and forth. I commuted last semester and a lot of times I'd have to be here really early just to avoid being really late," sophomore business major, Cliff Lee stated. "I like living on campus better," Lee admitted. Commuting can be more cost effective and may make it easier for some students to focus on school, but living on-campus is what true college life is all about. Although it ultimately depends on which situation best suits the student, how and where they live can greatly influence the college experience.

Anyone interested in more information on campus life contact office of residential student services at reslife@kean.edu, 908-737-6800, or visit (www.kean.edu/~reslife