Housing Guide for International Students at Southeastern Louisiana University

Housing Guide for International Students at Southeastern Louisiana University

As an international student preparing to study at Southeastern Louisiana University, one of your primary concerns is likely finding suitable housing. This guide aims to answer the most common questions about your living arrangements in Hammond, Louisiana.

On Campus Option:

What are the on-campus housing options for international students?

As an international student there might be some degree of cultural shock from food to living style. So to experience a change living abroad, for the shake of experience you can also choose to live on campus. On-campus options include:

• Traditional residence halls (shared rooms and communal bathrooms)
• Suite-style accommodations (shared living area with private or semi-private bathrooms)
• Apartment-style housing (for upperclassmen and graduate students)
• 
  

To apply for on-campus housing, visit the University Housing and submit your application as early as possible.

Off Campus Options:

Are there any off-campus apartments or houses that are popular among international students?

Yes, several off-campus options are popular among international students.

1. Smith Properties

They own pretty much majority of rentals in Hammond, around the campus. Some of their properties are

1. Higher trim and closer to uni
2. University Crossing: very close to campus
3. St. Tropez 900+
4. some apartments are. two floor
5. St. Regis
6. Azalea Park:
7. Pelican Park Apartments around
8. Affordable and also closer to uni:
9. Columbus Drive :

f. Hooks Drive owned by Smith: Offers affordable options

1. I lived in Hooks drive owned by smith properties in my first semester.We took a lease of 6 months only. It was an affordable option.I shared the apartment with my other roommates

Individual owned apartments with cheaper options:

2. Hooks Drive apartments owned by individual owners

1. Hooks drive apts owned by individual owners
2. Rent are around 600 per month
3. More affordable options like $500-$600 per month, with potential discounts for paying multiple months in advance. with discount which can make it upto 400$ per month
4. These apartments are slower in maintenance if anythings goes wrong as they are owned by individual owners

3. Whitmar Drive Appartments

From my second semester i lived in this apartments 56 whitmar drive. These were around 800$ per month. We shared the price, as 4 of us were living here. These had carpets and were cozy, shared laundry in complex.

1. There are multiple other apartments on the whitmar street.
2. You can use google map to find more apartments around
3. or see how far it is from school.

Some FAQ are:

1. What is the average cost of rent for different types of housing in Hammond? Rent in Hammond varies based on the type of accommodation and location:
2. Studio apartments: $575 - $850
3. 1-bedroom apartments: $650 - $1,200
4. 2-bedroom apartments: $900 - $1,500
5. 3-4 bedroom houses: $1,100 - $2,000
6. How far are off-campus housing options from the university, and what transportation options are available?
7. Many popular off-campus housing options are within walking or biking distance of the university:
8. University Crossing and properties on North Oak Street are very close to campus
9. St. Tropez and Pelican Park Apartments on Pecan Street are also nearby

For locations further from campus, Hammond offers limited public transportation.

Many students rely on bicycles, carpooling, or personal vehicles.

1. Are there any specific neighbourhoods in Hammond that are recommended for students?
2. Areas close to campus are generally recommended for students:
3. North Oak Street
4. University Avenue
5. Pecan Street
6. Hooks Drive
7. Whitmar Drive (which can be litter futher, around 20 mins walk)
8. These areas are known for their student-friendly environments and proximity to campus facilities.
9. What utilities and amenities are typically included in on-campus and off-campus housing?
10. On-campus housing typically includes all utilities, internet, and basic furniture. For off-campus housing:
11. Some apartments include water and trash collection in the rent
12. Electricity, gas, and internet are often the tenant's responsibility
13. Most off-campus apartments are unfurnished

Always clarify with the landlord or property manager what is included in the rent.

1. Are there any international student-specific housing options or communities?
2. While there aren't specific housing options exclusively for international students, the on-campus residence halls and popular off-campus apartments often have diverse, international communities. The Office of Multicultural and International Student Affairs can provide more information about where international students typically live.
3. What documents do international students need to rent off-campus housing? Typically, you'll need:
4. A valid passport and student visa
5. Proof of enrollment at Southeastern Louisiana University
6. Proof of income or financial support (bank statements or scholarship letters)
7. A social security number (if you have one) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
8. A U.S. contact or guarantor (the university's international office may be able to assist with this)
9. Are there any housing options that offer short-term leases for students staying less than a year?
10. Most off-campus rentals require a 12-month lease. However, some options for shorter terms include:
11. Subletting from other students (especially during summer months)
12. Some properties on Hooks Drive may offer more flexible terms
13. Always clarify the lease terms before signing any agreement.
14. How early should international students start looking for housing before the semester begins?
15. Start your housing search as early as possible, ideally few months before your planned arrival. For on-campus housing, apply as soon as you're admitted. For off-campus housing, begin your search early to have the best selection of properties.
16. Are there any resources or offices at the university that can help international students find housing?
17. Yes, several university resources can assist:
18. The International Services Office can provide general guidance
19. The Office of Multicultural and International Student Affairs offers support for off-campus living challenges
20. The University Housing Office can help with on-campus options and provide advice about off-campus living

What are the pros and cons of living on-campus vs. off-campus for international students?

1. On-campus Pros:
2. Close to classes and campus resources
3. Easier to meet other students
4. All-inclusive (utilities, internet, furniture)
5. More support from university staff.
6. On-campus Cons:
7. Generally more expensive
8. Less privacy
9. Subject to university rules and regulations
10. Off-campus Pros:
11. Often more affordable
12. More independence and privacy
13. Opportunity to experience local culture
14. Off-campus housing allows more freedom to cook familiar foods and practice cultural customs
15. 
    
16. Off-campus Cons:
17. Need to set up utilities and internet
18. May need to buy furniture
19. Further from campus resources
20. More responsibility (cleaning, cooking, etc.)

1. What safety measures should international students consider when choosing housing?
2. Look for properties with good lighting and secure entrances
3. Check the neighbourhoods safety record (the university or local police department can provide crime statistics)
4. For off-campus housing, consider getting renter's insurance
5. One everyone has it, but it can cover you on disaster.
6. There was an incident that happened to one of the Nepalese graduate as the rice cooker or some pressure cooker exploded causing huge damage to the property and was fined around 50,000$
7. Don't worry normally this does not happen, but better to be covered.
8. What are some options for finding roommates, especially for international students?
9. you can connect with different groups in social media like NSAs or other international or student organization which can lead you.

Remember, your housing choice significantly impacts your university experience. Take time to research your options, ask questions, and choose a living situation that best suits your needs and preferences.

Welcome to Southeastern Louisiana University, and best of luck with your housing search!

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