Cooglife Housing and Decor by The Cougar

Issue 22 / / February 2018

February 2018

Letter from the Editor

Before I moved to Houston five years ago, I’d never really had a home before. 5 Five reasons to consider living on campus 6-7 Icon 8-9

Campus vue

a guide to dorms & on-campus apartments

An extensive breakdown of the costs and amenities for each dorm and apartment on campus. 10

cullen oaks

11 gateway

cambridge oaks

Vue on macgregor

aspen heights

harvey 5 months later

“For people like my family and others, this is still our reality.” 15

savoy apartments

famsa furniture

16 lincoln 20 minimalism — is it for you? 21

the pros and cons of being a commuter

how to make your dorm feel like home

Quiz: where should you live?

COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Letter From The Editor Before I moved to Houston ﬁve years ago, I’d never really had a home before. Sure I had houses, but there was never one place that I grew up in that I could call my home. My parents had me when they were really young. My mother dropped out of high school when she got pregnant with me, and my father was an immigrant from Nicaragua who didn’t have access to higher education or high-paying jobs. Our ﬁrst house was all that they could afford — a one bedroom apartment in the Canoga Park neighborhood of L.A. The place was disgusting, and the carpets in it were so dirty that they ended up giving me warts on my knees and feet, and the landlord refused to change them out until my parents threatened to call the health department. Still, the place had its charms. While my parents were both busy working away at their jobs, my landlord would babysit me and the other kids at the complex. We would play with her dogs and sit on her sofa watching anime. Things were simple, and even though the place kind of sucked, there was still a strong sense of community there. But just before it could begin to feel like home, my father decided to join the military and my family and I packed our bags and headed out to El Paso, Texas. El Paso was a blur for me. I don’t remember much about that house, because most of the time I spent there was spent out of the house - either going to the pool, or Girl Scouts, or over to my friends’ houses. I remember my room was covered in puppy posters I picked up at the annual book fair and lots of Hello Kitty stuff, but that’s about it. 4

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Then we moved to Newport New, Virginia. I moved there at the end of elementary school, and didn’t move away until the eighth grade. At around this time I was going through a really edgy phase. Suddenly the puppy posters were swapped out for Sex Pistols and Black Flag ones instead, and the Hello Kitty stuff was swapped out with anything that had skulls, Union Jack flags or Billie Joe Armstrong’s face on it. I was always keen on making my room feel like me. But regardless of my attempts, the places I’ve inhabited have never really been more than that - places. No place has ever held a sense of significant value over the other, and whenever people ask me where I’m from, it’s always a tricky question to answer. My father decided to leave the military when I was about to start eighth grade, and decided we would permanently relocate to Houston of all places. I was not happy about this. Texas was the last place I wanted to live, and the melodramatic tween in me at the time shrieked at the thought of her precious teen years spent in cowboy boots and horseback riding. When we first moved here, I hated everything about my new house. The neighborhood was boring, my room was too small, our house was the smallest one in our neighborhood - basically every entitled complaint you could think of bothered me. The military had been nice to us. They had given us free houses the whole time, and when my parents couldn’t afford to live in one as nice as the ones they’d given us for free, I was so blindsided by the years of privilege I had, that I almost

forgot how hard my parents had worked to get us where we were. I forgot about the crappy apartment in Canoga Park that I was born into, and the fact that even being able to live there was something to be grateful for. Especially when some many other people in my parents situation are homeless. Once I became aware of this, I became very grateful for the house that I was in. This wasn’t a house anymore, this was our home. My family worked for years so that one day I could call a house my home. And my family is not alone. So many others like mine lost the place that they called home a few months ago when Hurricane Harvey devastated Houston. Fortunately, our home didn’t received any damage. But still, I know that others were not as fortunate. This issue will focus a lot on housing, more specifically the different on-campus housing options for those of us who might be leaving our parents’ homes for the first time. And of course, it will talk about Harvey. Even five months after it has happened, countless people are still without homes, trying to get their lives back together, and some people are barely just getting back in to their homes and trying to make their houses feel like home again. Regardless of your current housing situation, I hope there is something you can take out of this issue. Enjoy!

JULIE ARAICA Executive Editor

THE TEAM EDITORIAL Julie Araica, Executive Editor

arts@thedailycougar.com

erin davis, Assistant Editor

artsassist@thedailycougar.com

maya dandashi, Assistant Editor

artsassist2@thedailycougar.com

DESIGN sonny singh, Creative Director

ame@thedailycougar.com

WRITING rukaiya batliwala ana gonzalez

PHOTOGRAPHY Thom dwyer, Photo Editor

photo@thedailycougar.com kathryn lenihan marissa reilly

COVER erin davis

VIDEO reem al-bishah, Producer

ADVERTISING For advertising inquiries email csmadvertising@uh.edu @COOGLIFEMAG

COOGLIFE

@COOGLIFEMAG

TOP FIVE X reasons to consider living on campus

written by rukaiya batliwala

art by julie araica

College is an irreplaceable part of everyone’s life. From rigorous classes to fun events, it is an overwhelming experience. One thing that makes college more memorable is living on campus with your friends. Here are some reasons why college students should consider living on campus.

you are closer to everything

new to everything in college, on campus dorms are the best place to meet new people and socialize. Most colleges have dorms just for freshmen, which is a great opportunity for new students to meet others new like them.

Living on campus means you are closer to all classes and university facilities. You don’t have to wake up at 7 a.m. for a 10 a.m. class and drive from home to college on campus amidst all the road traffic. You can get a good sleep, wake up housing is late and still won’t be late for classes — isn’t it awesome? Also, more fun when you live on campus you can There are hundreds access all the facilities by walking of things to do for students less than a mile. living on campus. All colleges have residential associations that organize movie nights, game events and many more activities YOU MAKE for residents so that they can relax from the stress of studying. FRIENDS FOR There is free food, free gifts and more than, that free fun. It makes College less tiring and more LIFE One of the best things about enjoyable. living on campus is living with roommates who could eventually end up being your close friends. Especially for freshmen who are

academic and social support

it is very safe

Academic pressure and being away from home can sometimes be too much to handle. Living on campus provides students with an opportunity to talk with other students going through similar hardships and they can always get support from the staff members.

Most on campus dorms and apartments have a special access card which is needed to swipe in the building along with the key for individual rooms. Also, there is security available in the building 24/7 to take care of the students. There are security cameras throughout the building and there is escort service provided if a student must travel at night. COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Be the Icon. Live the Icon. CONTENT SPONSORED BY THE ICON Be the Icon. Live the Icon. The Icon is the newest and most luxurious student housing experience serving the University of Houston students. We are located directly across from campus thus walking distance to the core of the UH main campus with a location that cannot be matched, unique contemporary style and modern feel. The Icon is fully furnished with a full-sized bed, desk and chair, and dresser. The living area comes with a comfortable couch, chair, coffee table, and an entertainment stand. The kitchen comes fully equipped with a dining table including four chairs, high-end stainless steel appliances, refrigerator, dishwasher, builtin microwave, and washer & dryer. We offer a unique roommate matching system. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have anyone in mind that you would like to live with, let us match you up with someone! There is a Roommate Matching Sheet that you will fill out to let us know more about what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for in a roommate. At The Icon, we want to help support productivity by offering a fully equipped computer lab and study lounge at your fingertips. We want to keep you healthy with an on-site 24-hour state-of-the-art fitness center. We also want to help you relax and meet your neighbors by providing you with academicoriented luxury lounge areas located around the property. We are a controlled access community offering superior 24-hour customer service. We offer an excellent academic environment via our individual study stations, and our group study rooms with gorgeous downtown views. The Icon meets every need that you as a student will have while in college so you can achieve your success in an enjoyable atmosphere. Break the mold. Be the envy. BE THE ICON. 6

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NOW LEASiNG

FOR 2018

The Icon is changing the student living game at U of H, so act quickly to secure your spot â&#x20AC;&#x201D; available in single or double occupancy. The Icon wows with fully furnished apartments featuring upscale brushed nickel hardware, and community comforts like a swim-up cabana and study rooms on every floor. Nestled directly across from campus, getting to class is a breeze.

Apply online today and pay ZERO DOWN 3509 Elgin Houston, TX 77004 713-344-1684

Limited time offer!

LivEThEicON.cOm COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Campus Vue CONTENT SPONSORED BY CAMPUS VUE Over 10,000 restaurants, world-class theater groups, diverse culture and artistic expression; welcome to Houston, Texas. The Culinary and Cultural Capital of the South is an exciting place to work, stay and play. In its third year, Campus Vue is a leader in innovation in the student housing industry providing off campus housing to The University of Houston. Campus Vue offers accommodating living spaces for every student’s preference ranging from one-bedroom studios to four bedrooms/ four-bathroom floorplans. Plenty of spacious options if you have roommates and excellent roommate matching if you’re wanting to meet more people! Luckily for our residents each of our units come fully furnished with Wi-Fi and cable connections in each bedroom. Along with our modern style apartments we also have desirable amenities for all of our resident’s needs. Located close to the UH campus you can make a quick trip across the street to catch the UH shuttle or enjoy short walk to class. For our pet friendly residents, we have a brand-new dog park located next to our recently upgraded court yard. Our courtyard is perfect for those cooler nights to sit around the fire pit with friends. When summer hits, you can be found relaxing poolside while soaking up the sun on our upgraded furniture. Our residents also love utilizing our onsite 24-hour gym, study rooms and game/lounge room. After a long day on campus you can take a load off on our newly renovated roof top lounge with brand new gas grills and fire pit to help you relax. All while you see the beautiful skyline of downtown Houston, giving you the best VUE in town. Don’t worry, this isn’t the only place you can see these awesome views, you can request to have this view from your apartment! Not only do we have upgraded amenities, we provide a resident’s life program that is above the rest. Weekly resident events for free food and getting to know your neighbors. We know how stressful college can be and we’re here to make your living experience above the rest. Don’t believe that one place could offer so much? Come check us out for yourself and see what an amazing lifestyle we have to offer! We look forward to seeing you at the best view, CAMPUS VUE! 8

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nOW Leasing!

Unit FeatUres

Upgraded amenities

• Fully Furnished units

• Controlled access Building

• stand-up tanning Bed

• Granite Countertops

• Gated parking Garage

• outdoor Fire pit & Vue Deck

• stainless steel appliances

• property-Wide security Cameras

• Game room

• 50" Flat-screen tV in Living rooms

• security patrol officers

• 5th Floor Lounge

• private Bathrooms and Walk-in Closets

• resort-style pool

• resident events and activities

• In unit Washer and Dryer

• 24-Hour Fitness Center

• on-site management

• Individual Leases

• Dog park

• 24-Hour study rooms

stUdiO, 1, 2 and 4 BedrOOms aVaiLaBLe! CampusVueapartments.Com | 4459 n maCGreGor Way, Houston, tX | 281.888.5570 |

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BBQ

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| 720.625.8600 | 1901 CULLEN BLVD | COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Cambridge Oaks Apartments CONTENT SPONSORED BY CAMBRIDGE OAKS

Your search for on-campus student housing can stop here! Located just a 5-minute walk from the center of campus at the intersection of Cullen and Wheeler, Cambridge Oaks offers an ideal location matched by none to make sure you are taking full advantage of what your University has to offer. Offering a gated community with garden-style apartments you will be able to take a sigh of relief when walking back to your new home. With plenty of green space around for recreation or for your four-legged friends, BBQ & picnic areas, a crystal clear swimming pool, and a 24-hour on-site laundry facility, Cambridge Oaks offers everything you need to stay entertained and stress free. We have wonderful residence life programs for all of our residents that cover all aspects of life from academics to social experiences and more. Enjoy up to 200+ channels in the comfort of your apartment with our Comcast cable service in each unit and complimentary Wi-Fi and Ethernet connections throughout the property. The safety of our student residents is very important especially knowing that they are working hard at all times of the day. Cambridge Oaks has 24/7 security on-site provided by the University of Houston and UH also provides escorts to our students to and from class or wherever they may need to be on-campus at any hour of the day. We are also happy to announce that Cambridge Oaks will be offering furnished units for the upcoming year so check out our website or give our office a call for additional information. Renovations are taking place this summer and we are looking forward to giving our residents the highest quality student living experience on-campus at the University of Houston. Our moto is to foster an environment that students can â&#x20AC;&#x153;Live, Learn, & Growâ&#x20AC;? and we believe that Cambridge Oaks is the perfect community to be able to do just that.

# HoustonStr

where the best coogs den. Resident Clubhouse | Swimming Pool | BBQ Areas | Free Wifi/High Speed Internet | Pet-Friendly

4444 Cullen Blvd. Houston, TX 77004 (713) 489-2673 | cambridgeoaksUH.com

COOGLIFE // APRIL 2017

Vue on MacGregor CONTENT SPONSORED BY VUE ON MACGREGOR

Vue on MacGregor—remember that name because it’s about to be your new HOME. We’re not really sure why you would live anywhere that doesn’t have controlled access entry, GPA discounts, or gated-garage parking. Don’t worry, we have tons more to offer than just that. You can also forget that gym membership and get swole right at home with our 2 fitness centers, one for weights and one for cardio. Bring the squad over and chill in the aqua lounge, and then print up that term paper with free printing and access to our 24 hour computer lounge. Even if you just need a night in, we got you covered! Granite countertops, wood-style flooring, and stainless-steel appliances, and 50” flat screens to make your pad feel just like home. Did I mention we are fully furnished? From your queen-sized bed right to the washer and dryer it’s all included in every apartment. We’ve thought of everything. We’re right next to campus, so don’t you won’t have to fight for a parking space ever again. No university parking pass needed when you can just walk a few minutes and be right on time to class. If walking isn’t your thing, you can hop of the bus right across the street. Make your professors office hours, actually be involved with oncampus activities, and even sleep in late and still make it to class. Still don’t believe us? Check out the latest review from our boy Melvin M, ““Great location, cool neighbors, and great staff! CONTROLLED ACCESS. Fully furnished...seriously can’t ask for more.” So come check it out. We promise you won’t be disappointed. Make sure you hurry though, because we have some of the best deals going on right now and don’t want you to be left on the streets. www.vuecollegeliving.com

COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Aspen Heights CONTENT SPONSORED BY ASPEN HEIGHTS Tired of dorm rooms? Ready to live in style? The road to luxury living starts here! Aspen Houston is one the city’s newest gated luxury apartment complexes. We offer a variety of floorplans and layouts from 1 to 4-bedroom options. Our goal for every resident is simple – to offer the best possible student-housing experience. No matter what you’re looking for, or who you’re looking with, we’ve got an option that’s sure to fit perfectly. Every unit offers large private bedrooms and bathrooms and walk-in closets. No need to stress about buying or renting furniture. We furnish all units with modern bedroom and living room pieces! All of our apartments are fully equipped with all the basic appliances which include full-size washer and dryer, microwave, stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher! Granite countertops and wood-style flooring are available in every unit! The open kitchen and stainless-steel appliances might inspire you to start cooking more and eating out less. Our 24-hour clubhouse offers a wide variety of great amenities for our resident’s enjoyment. The resort-style pool gives you the luxury to cool down on warm summer days. Avoid the travel to campus with the convenience of our 24-hour full service study lounge and free printing. Get in shape using the 24-hour state-of-the art fitness center which offers many treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, and dumbbells. Reserved parking is available for all residents in the multi-level covered parking garage. In addition, we offer our private shuttle bus that takes you to and from campus. The convenience of our shuttle bus will save you time, money, and gas! We’re in Houston and we can’t wait to meet you and show you our brand-new community for students! Stop by for a tour day!

HOUSTON

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CONTEST + GIVEAWAYS /SAVOYAPARTMENTS

@SAVOYAPARTMENTS

Savoy Apartments CONTENT SPONSORED BY SAVOY APARTMENTS

Amenities: o o o o

Fitness Center and Outdoor Grill o Pet Friendly Washer and Dryer Included o Awesome Resident Events Clubhouse with FREE Wi-Fi o Spacious Closets and Storage Resort Style Pool with Sunning Deck

GOT A QUESTION? CALL OR TEXT

savoyapartments.com 844.852.7890

Famsa Furniture CONTENT SPONSORED BY FAMSA FURNITURE Where you get the savings you deserve on the furniture you need! FAMSA specializes in selling everything you need for your home, which include; furniture, mattresses, electronics, computers and appliances. We offer customers home delivery and assembly, as well as the sale of extended warranties for their products so they are protected against any eventuality. Our commitment is to offer our customers a wide variety of products from brands of your trust, at affordable prices, and with the best service. No credit? No problem! We can get you approved for financing today!

Furnished and unfurnished 1 bedroom & 2 bedroom apartments in the heart of Houston with all of the amenities you would expect, Savoy has something for everyone. This is the best location in South Central Houston near University of Houston, Texas Southern University, Texas Medical Center, Rice University, Hermann Park, South Freeway/288, I-45 and more. Experience the best in student living in Houston, Texas at Savoy Apartments.

GET THE SAVINGS YOU DESERVE ON THE FURNITURE YOU NEED!

15% OFF PURCHASES OF $999 AND UP of regular priced furniture or mattresses.

No credit? No problem! We can get you approved for financing today! Find your nearest Famsa Furniture location at famsafurniture.com

COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

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Your guide to on-campus apartments and dorms

BY MAYA DANDASHI Whether it’s an apartment or dorm, there are plenty of options for students to live on campus. Doesn’t matter your classiﬁcation, cultural background or personal interests, there is somewhere to live for everyone. Here are the 10 on-campus living options.

D O R M S

Cougar Village 1 &2 • • • • • • • • •

Only freshmen allowed Mini gyms Computer labs Community kitchens Study/social lounges Free laundry Pool tables Cougar Xpress market Close to Moody Dining Hall

Meal plan required Single: $4,036 Double: $3,102

Photos by Marissa Reilly

Living on campus - the best decision ever!

Students who live on campus have an average GPA of 3.0 and are more likely to graduate in 4 years.*

Apply today!

*Based on data from 2017 UH commuter and resident students.

uh.edu/housing

@uhhousing

COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Moody Towers

Cougar Place

apartments

The Lofts Photo by Maya Dandashi Photo by Marissa Reilly • • • • • • • • • •

All enrolled UH students are eligible to live in Moody Free laundry facilities Community bathrooms Computer lab Cyber lounge Dining hall TV lounges ATM Gym Pool tables

Meal plan required Single: $3,467 Double: $2,536

Photo by Kathryn Lenihan • • • • • • •

Only students who are sophomore standing or higher or are 20 or older by Sept. 1 Suite style living, each having their own bedroom Free laundry facilities Gym Lounge area Pool tables Reservable outdoor equipment

Meal plan required 4-Bed/1-Bath: $3,699 2-Bed/1-Bath: $4,036 1-Bed/1-Bath: $4,148

• • • • • • • • • • • • •

Only junior standing or higher or 21 or older by Sept. 1 allowed Study lounges Theater room Two roof terraces Gym Free laundry facilities Cougar Xpress market and Subway Private courtyard Pool table Computer lab Special event kitchen Can choose between furnished and unfurnished Full Kitchen Appliance Set

Efficiency Unfurnished: $4,784 Efficiency Furnished: $4,907

THE ELLE COLLECTION @ THE MEDICAL CENTER 8181 El Mundo St. www.theellecollection.com 713-741-2001 Featuring | Wood Floors • Granite Counter Tops • Free Covered Parking Shuttle Service to Medical Center & U of H Campus • Washer/Dryer Over Size Garden Tubs • Pet Friendly • Mirrored Wardrobe Closests

@ellecollectiontmc

Fire Places in Select Units • Attached Garages

*UP TO 2 MONTHS FREE ON SELECT APARTMENT HOMES* 18

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Bayou Oaks

•

• •

Only students who have sophomore standing or higher or are 20 by Sept. 1 Shuttle buses to and from campus Computer lab

• • • • • • •

Gym Pool tables Free laundry Community kitchen Community events Gated community Leather-style furniture

Photo by Thom Dwyer

4-Bed/2-Bath P1: $769 2-Bed/1-Bath P1: $838 2-Bed/1-Bath P2: $832 2-Bed/2-Bath P1: $872 2-Bed/2-Bath P2: $859 2-Bed/2-Bath Deluxe: $883 1-Bed/1-Bath P1: $1,003 1-Bed/1-Bath P2: Call

• • • • •

Gym UH-aﬃliated, owned privately Basketball court Outdoor kitchens with BBQ grills Outdoor gathering pavilions

Cambridge Oaks

• • • • • • • •

• • • •

Full-size beds Individual bedrooms with locks Full Kitchen Appliance Set Living Room

4-Bed/2-Bath: $3,761 2-Bed/1-Bath: $3,957 3-Bed/2-Bath: $3,868

Cullen Oaks

Garage parking Computer lab Group study lounges Gated community Laundry facilities Fully equipped kitchens On UH shuttle route Close to TDECU stadium

Photo by Kathryn Lenihan • • • • • •

All enrolled UH students are eligible UH-aﬃliated, owned privately Laundry service Pet-friendly Resident parking Resident clubhouse

Photo by Kathryn Lenihan

• • • • • • •

Studio eﬃciency:$1015 1-Bed/1-Bath Study tables Swimming pool unfurnished: $1115 Sand volleyball court 2-Bed/2-Bath SemiBBQ area Private unfurnished: $495 Unfurnished or 2-Bed/2-Bath Private furnished unit unfurnished:$875 Full kitchen Basic cable 2-Bed/2-Bath Private (4 residents per unit) : $536

LOOKING FOR A NEW PLACE TO CALL HOME? Metro 5514 allows you to live near it all. We feature 1 and 2 bedroom apartment homes conveniently located near the Medical Center, University of Houston and Downtown with easy access to I-45 and the 610 loop. All accessible by Metro rail, which is located directly across the street from our community. For your comfort our features include 9 foot ceilings, bay window dining areas and spacious kitchens. We are also pet friendly however, breed restrictions apply. Please call to schedule a tour today! ******Come check out our BRAND NEW Student Business/Study Center!!!******

OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday CLOSED

5514 Griggs Road, Houston, TX 77201

metro5514.com

844.623.7113

Metro5514Apts065@myLTSMail.com COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

What to make of minimalism and if it’s right for you

STORY AND ART BY ERIN DAVIS There’s no denying that minimalism is a buzzword these days. The word itself evokes a design philosophy that is sparse, white and cleanly. In that same breath, minimalist spaces can also feel clinical, sterile and empty. Minimalist design is modern, geometric and simple. To be honest, even though I call myself a minimalist, I’m not a fan of this aesthetic at all. There is a distinct line between minimalist design and minimalist philosophy, which is rarely discussed and frequently but erroneously combined. While minimalism might be centered visually on black and white shapes, the values associated with minimalism do not have to produce that result. The core of minimalist philosophy is best distilled down to a single question, “Does this thing add value to my life?” That thing (say it’s a painting) might add value by providing you with beauty, while a shelf might provide functional value. Taking the time to question what we keep in our space is a good way to get rid of excess, surrounding ourselves instead with objects that we truly love. Clutter is inevitable, especially in the small quarters that most college students and graduates find themselves living in. It can be easy and fun to plan out the perfect décor that your room will have — complete with banners, photos and maybe even posters. Going for a specific look can mean unneeded purchases, that when combined with what we actually care about, potentially overwhelm a space with clutter. Clutter can cause a number of inconveniences, including the time that it takes to straighten up, as well as visual 20 COOGLIFE

// APRIL 2017

overcrowding. Having a room that is packed with décor and utility items is harder to organize and straighten. It’s more difficult to know what you have, and where the thing that you need actually is. If you have a drawer for just the stapler and tape, you’ll always know where the stapler and tape is going to be. When I say my room is minimalist, I don’t mean that my room is a blank, white canvas. I want to have a space that is welcoming to be in. I have photos hanging, small paintings and just things that I enjoy looking at. That said, I’m totally aware of everything in my room. Everything in my line of sight adds value, and there’s nothing I keep “just because.” This makes it easier for me to clean because everything has its assigned place, and I’m not stuck trying to cram new things into spaces that are already full. If I do want to make a new purchase, it needs to satisfy the “value” question. Will this object be worth the upkeep, money and attention it’s going to take up? Am I going to like this object after a month? Do I value this as much as the objects I already have? If that answer is no, chances are the purchase is not going to be something that comes home with me. The basis of minimalism is to be intentional. You work hard for your money, but you also deserve an environment that is comfortable and inviting to be in. Intentionality is finding a balance between the two, so that you can make the best of your space.

The pros and cons of being a commuter STORY BY ANA GONZALEZ ART COURTESY OF VECTOREEZY

Most students at the University of Houston don’t live on campus. In fact, around 85 percent commute every day to get to campus. I am in that 85 percent and I have been commuting for the last three years. Although I don’t mind commuting, it does have its pros and cons. One of the good things is that I don’t have to deal with dorms or roommates. Campus dorms can be pretty expensive and not everyone can afford them. Besides, people barely fit in there. For a somewhat claustrophobic person, the thought of sharing a room with a complete stranger is not something that sounds appealing.

Another thing that I like about commuting is that you don’t have to eat on campus. Sure, sometimes when I’m feeling hungry I buy food, but for the most part I eat at home. Being a commuter has made me appreciate my mom’s food so much more, and not to mention how much money it’s saved me. You also get to arrive to and leave campus whenever you please. I’ve sometimes only had to go to campus for one class, but I’ll try to make the most out of my trip by getting some work done in the library. This is especially helpful during midterms and finals because the library provides an ideal place to study. If I go home, I’ll

29 400+ INFINITE

probably just go straight to my bed. Like everything, commuting also comes with its disadvantages. One of the downsides is that you have to wake up earlier to get to class. Especially when you have an 8:30 a.m. class. I will usually wake up at 5:30 a.m., and leave around 6:45 a.m. to catch the bus. I try to study on the bus and you will probably always see me half-asleep with a textbook in my hand. Which brings me to my next point. Transportation. As I said, I take the bus. Luckily, the bus route that I take stops STORY CONTINUES ON PAGE 23

engaging departments and programs

staff dedicated to student success

ways to transform challenges into opportunities

What does #UHSuccess look like to you? GET INVOLVED . STAY HEALTHY . GET SUPPORT . LIVE ON CAMPUS . TAKE CHARGE . uh.edu/dsaes

UH_DSAES

UH Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Services

COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Ways to make your dorm feel like your home away from home STORY AND PHOTOS BY MAYA DANDASHI Your new dorm might not feel like or smell like home, but there are definitely some ways you can make it your own. Despite the stigma around home décor and DIY only being for girls (which it’s not), creating and decorating your new living space is one of the most effective ways of making your new “house” a home. pet tarantula, your family, best friends or significant other. Putting up photos of your loved can make living away just the slightest bit more tolerable. There also a number of places you can hang photos up. My personal favorite: metal frame photo holders.

Create storage spaces Go thrifting

The first step to decorating cute and cheap is to get yourself to one of the hundreds of thrift stores in Houston. One of my favorites is The Cottage Shop in Montrose. This quaint yet versatile vintage store has everything from kitchen supplies to wall décor. Best part is, it’s owned and run by The Women’s Home, who serve women in Houston who have experienced trauma or some sort of crisis.

Put up photos

Doesn’t matter if it’s a photo of you (selfobsession is sometimes OK), your dog/cat/

If you’re anything like me and you’re striving to live a more minimalistic lifestyle, you attempted to not bring all of your belongings from home. Truth be told, it’s much easier said than done. But, creating unique storage spaces for your belongings can be fun and a good way to personalize your room/apartment.

COOGLIFE // APRIL 2017

My obsession with cacti may be the driving force behind this one. Okay, it definitely is the driving force behind this one but nothing can brighten your room better than some greenery. Most popular of them all are definitely succulents, which require minimal care due to their ability to survive in dry, arid conditions.

Pillows

Nothing feels better than coming back to your room after a long day of just absolute exhaustion and stress. The first thing you’ll want to do it flop onto your bed for a nice nap with your plethora of pillows to keep you snuggled in to point of suffocation. After all, this is going to be your safe spot, so having it decked out with your favorite Ah this is always a great one. Nothing makes stuffed animals (I know you have some) and me happier than to wake up to my “Eternal fluffy pillows will make your dorm just feel a Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” poster or bit homier. my print of Mariano Peccinetti. It brings some sort of solace. I don’t know if it’s because the prints are beautiful themselves or if it just reminds me of things that I love and enjoy.

Put up posters

Leave some space for food that you love

Maybe you no longer can wake up to the smell of your favorite savory or sweet pie, but you can definitely stock up on snacks that remind you of home. Whether it’s jerky for fellow Coloradans, Moonpies for Alabamians or cheese straws for Mississippians, comfort food that smells and tastes like home is a must.

Plants

Photo by Janae Sitzes

STORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21 in front of my apartments and stops by Cullen and Holman. My classrooms are never that far from that point. The only thing is that trafﬁc combined with frequent bus stops, you can get easily irritated, but not more than the students that drive to campus. I’ve heard horror stories of students getting to campus

quickly only to spend more time trying to ﬁnd a parking space. Another disadvantage is that I have not been that involved with campus life. UH has a variety of interesting clubs, but being a full-time student that commutes from somewhat far away, it’s hard. Most general meetings are after 6 p.m. and by that time I’m either riding the bus, or I’m home. My commuting time can range from 1 hour to 1.5 hours, so it’s important for me to get

home and do what I need to do so that I am well-rested the next day. In sum, commuting can be somewhat of a hassle, but it also has a good side. It can teach you how to be more independent and responsible without leaving the comfort of your home. But whether you commute or live on campus it’s important to remember that we are here to have a better future and that is worth any sacriﬁce.

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COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

Harvey’s impact still felt in local community, ﬁve months later

One student shares her Harvey experience, reﬂects on the lessons it taught her BY JULIE ARAICA Her family’s goal was to just be able to spend Christmas at their home — a wish that many families across Houston likely shared after the devastating impact of Hurricane Harvey back in August. Their wish didn’t come true, but they made the most of their situation regardless, her mom bought a tiny Christmas tree from Hobby Lobby, and they celebrated that Christmas in the apartment they were staying in. Media production junior Sarah Rolen wasn’t able to move back into her house until the weekend before this semester began. “It’s weird because whenever I was standing in my house, moving all of our belongings around, water around my ankles — I didn’t really think about what it was going to be like, and that we weren’t going to be able to live there for so long,” Rolen said. Rolen’s story is just one of many. In her neighborhood alone, Rolen said that out of 275 houses, 273 of them ﬂooded. “Everyone’s grass is dead, some people still have trash in their yards and most people still don’t live there, so when you drive through you just see trucks for contractors and construction workers — but there’s not really any families there anymore,”

COOGLIFE // APRIL 2017

LEFT: Rolen’s neighborhood experienced 2 to 3-feet of flooding TOP RIGHT: Rolen’s family had to tear at the walls where her house flooded BOTTOM RIGHT: Several homes in Rolen’s neighborhood still have trash in their front yards

Rolen said. “It’s like an abandoned wasteland.” Rolen was lucky — her family had flood insurance. But many others weren’t, including her next-door neighbor, who Rolen said haven’t even been able to start much of the major repairs needed on their house. Even though her family had flood insurance though, she said that they didn’t even receive all the money that they needed until last month. And even after receiving the money, Rolen’s family is still in the process of trying to make their house feel like home again. Right now, they don’t have any furniture in their living room. Rolen said that they’re using fold-out chairs for now, but she’s grateful nontheless. According to the Washington Post, Harvey damaged 203,000 homes, 12,700 of which were destroyed. Many of these homes belonged to students like Rolen — and even five months after the hurricane has passed, this is still something that they’re living with each day. “People might think things aren’t that bad anymore, but when you branch out, and go into those smaller communities, people are still very much affected by it,” Rolen said. “It’s interesting that for the people who weren’t affected by it at all, it’s just a thing of the past. But for people like my family and others, this

Photos courtesy of Sarah Rolen

is still our reality.” As far as actual damage, Rolen said her house flooded somewhere between 2 to 3-feet deep. Her house is situated down off the highway like a bowl, and there is also a creek that runs right behind her neighborhood. When Harvey hit, these two factors worked against her neighborhood and almost everyone experienced substantial flooding. But through it all, Rolen said that her neighborhood held in strong. Even now she said that people are still helping each other out, contractors and and construction workers giving people advice over Facebook, people make each other food and let them have a place to stay. Her family has even become close with her neighbors across the street, and they stop by all the time now just to hang out. “The number one thing I’ve taken from Harvey is that people are so good,” Rolen said. “We were taken out of our house in a canoe by some random guy who didnt even live in our neighborhood, he just saw all the water and decided he was gonna go get people. It just blew my mind at how there are people who when they’re faced with tragedy, their first thought is ‘I can help.” COOGLIFE // FEBRUARY 2018

WHERE SHOULD YOU LIVE? How quickly can you get ready?

Do you mind driving?

A. About 10 minutes, TOPS

A. I don’t mind it, as long as I can get to my destination

B. 10 minutes, if my mom lays out my lunch for the day C. 30 min - 45 min, I like to make sure I’m looking spiffy D. An hour, I need to look good and I like to cook myself breakfast

C. I hate driving, it makes me nervous and I HATE getting gas D. It doesn’t matter to me, but I prefer biking/walking

Do you mind living with others?

When are your classes?

A. I hate people, please do not breathe around, or near me

A. Back to back, scattered across the week

B. I don’t mind it, but I’d rather live with a relative/family

B. Back to back, on M-W-F or T-T

C. I would love to, but it has to be a friend of mine

C. Totally scattered, all over the place

D. I want to live with someone, doesn’t matter who they are!

D. Back to back or separated, scattered across the week What is your ideal study environment?

How often do you eat?

B. I love driving, it’s the perfect time to clear my mind

A. I eat a meal 2-3 times a day, and cook for myself occassionally

A. I like my private space, but I want help from peers at times

B. I eat a meal 2-3 times a day, preferably my parents’ food

B. I do well studying alone, I hate distractions

C. I’ll grab a meal whenever I have the time

C. I love studying in groups and having different study areas

D. I’ll eat whenever, I’m flexible with my meals and snacks

D. Alone or in groups, I like having options

MOSTLY A

MOSTLY B

MOSTLY C

MOSTLY D

Off-campus apartment

Live at home

On-campus dorm

On-campus apartment

COOGLIFE // APRIL 2017

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