Housing guide 02/13/17

THE MOVING GAME Roll the dice, see where you land

Be informed Living with Decorating What to before signing a significant your space on consider before a lease other a dime getting a pet Page 3

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Housing Guide Spring 2017

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The Bloc to debut rooftop lounge, social spaces SPONSORED CONTENT The Bloc, set to open in Fall 2017, offers the preferred location in the Overton District for Texas Tech students.

Choose between a townhome or a manor flat; threeand four-bedroom apartment homes are available.

Regardless of which style you choose you’ll enjoy a fully furnished private bedroom and private bathroom.

Enjoy blazing-fast Wi-Fi, large HD TVs, valet trash service, individual liability leasing and so much more.

Our community amenities include Lubbock’s only rooftop lounge; a resort-style pool with a sun deck and cabanas; tanning rooms; barbecue areas with covered grills; a large social pavilion space; a technology center with multiple computer stations; a Starbucks coffee bar; a 24-hour fitness center; and private study rooms.

Apartment amenities include premium designer-furnished bedrooms and living rooms; bedroom ceiling fans; premium cable TV (included); loft beds with pillow-top mattresses and storage space; fully furnished stainless steel appliance packages; and washers and dryers.

Technology at The Bloc includes 1 GB wired and wireless service throughout the property; electronic key

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WHAT DO I NEED? There are some items you may want to keep easily accessible on moving day. After a long day, no one wants to unpack 15 boxes just to find some light bulbs, a fork or a roll of toilet paper.

Bathroom: Plunger Towels Toilet paper Toiletries Hand soap Toilet brush Bedroom: Blanket Extra set of sheets Pillows Mirror Iron/ironing board Steamer Hangers Laundry hamper

Images courtesy of The Bloc

TOP: The pool at The Bloc will feature a sun deck and cabanas. The outdoor spaces also will feature barbecue areas, a social pavilion and a rooftop lounge. ABOVE: Each apartment at The Bloc will feature designer furnishings, stainless steel appliances and washers and dryers.

access; video intercom with iOS- and Android-compatible apps; front entrance touch screens; and an on-

demand fitness center.

The Bloc also offers individual liability leasing, allinclusive rental packages

and roommate matching.

For more details or to apply now, visit http://livethebloc.com/about-us.

Kitchen: Dishes Utensils Cups Pot holders/oven mitt Can opener Trash can Trash bags Microwave Toaster Hand mixer Coffee maker Baking accessories Travel mug Water (Pitcher/filter) Corkscrew/bottle opener (but only if you’re over 21, of course) Dish towels Measuring cups Pots/pans Paper towels Dish soap Food-storage containers

Cleaning: Broom Dustpan Mop Disinfectant wipes Vacuum Miscellaneous: Tape Command Strips Extension cord Power strip Chargers Batteries Light bulbs Basic tool kit: Hammer Flat-head screwdriver Phillips screwdriver Nails Tape measure Pliers Medicine: Prescriptions Pain reliever Allergy/cold meds First-aid kit HDMI cable Step stool Smoke detector Sewing kit Umbrella Fire extinguisher Flashlight Air freshener Pen Paper Scissors Utility knife Laundry soap Dryer sheets Fabric softener

Student Legal Services available to offer advice on leases, insurance Before Texas Tech students sign housing leases, Student Legal Services staff can examine documents to ensure students are protected and offer advice.

Jeffrey Hayes, an attorney at law with Student Legal Services, said he often reviews leases for students and wants to answer any questions students or parents may have before

documents are signed.

Students often do not know once a lease is signed, the signee is committed to the lease, he said.

“Once you sign it, you’re bound,” Hayes said. “It’s not one month’s rent, it’s the entire lease amount.

If you have a $500 rent, that’s a $6,000 contract you just signed.”

Even if a student does

not find a guarantor, the lease will not be canceled, he said.

A guarantor is a person who promises to fulfill a lease if the original signee violates the agreement, according to the Student Legal Services website. The guarantor is typically a parent, and his or her credit score can be negatively affected if rent goes unpaid.

MORE INFORMATION For additional things to keep in mind when preparing to sign a new lease or a renewal, see Page 10.

Students should look for individual lease agreements, Hayes said, and many corporate housing complexes offer these options.

Students with individual leases have limited liability for any damages because they are only responsible for damages in their own rooms and common areas, he said.

Under joint lease agreements, a resident could be responsible for the entire property’s rent payment if a roommate fails to pay, Hayes said.

To help avoid conflicts with roommates, Hayes said Student Legal Services offers roommate agreements on its website.

These agreements are often helpful when roommates have pets, he said.

If a pet causes damage to a property, a roommate agreement makes it clear who is responsible for the cost.

If a conflict with roommates reaches the point of a student needing legal

advice, Hayes said Student Legal Services can help but are limited.

“I can’t represent one Tech student against another, so I have 37,000 clients,” he said. “If I help one against another, then that other one can come in and get help against that other person, so I’m just conflicted.”

Before moving in, students should go through and examine the entire property, Hayes said. Once boxes are moved into a room, it can be hard to see carpet stains or scratches on counters.

New properties in particular come with higher risks because it may be easier to be charged for damages, he said.

“Fill out the move-in inventory, even if you don’t think you need to,” Hayes said. “There are a few new properties coming in for next year, and even though it’s new, you still need to fill out a move-in inventory because they could’ve spilled paint on the carpet or something similar.”

Residents can purchase renters insurance to protect themselves and their properties from covering the entire

cost of damages, he said.

Insurance generally costs $10-20 per month, Hayes said, and landlords often will recommend or require renters insurance.

“If I could make (students) get insurance, I would make them,” he said.

The university will host an off-campus housing fair on Tuesday with 20-plus properties, he said, so students can gain more insight into their housing options for next school year.

This year should be should be a renters’ market with plenty of incentives offered to students as new, competing complexes continue to open, Hayes said. If students wait to sign leases, housing complexes may increase incentives, such as gift cards or free items, to fill rooms.

“I encourage students to wait (a while before signing a lease),” he said. “They may find better roommates in their classes they like more.”

If students have any questions on leases or other legal issues, they can visit Student Legal Services in Room 307 of the Student Union building, call (806) 742-3289 or visit its website.

ON THE COVER: Choosing the right apartment can be a roll of the dice. There are so many complexes and amenities to choose from that the search can be overwhelming.

Take time to decide what matters most to you and make a choice based on that. Photo illustration by McKenzi Morris and Justin Rex.

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The Scarlet reimagines student living, focuses on amenities

Which community has the most school spirit in Lubbock? The Scarlet student apartments, of course.

Only a block away from Texas Tech, situated in the heart of the Overton district, The Scarlet has a premier location, all new one-of-a-kind amenities and hotel-inspired service that cannot be found elsewhere in town. The Scarlet even has its own Citibus campus shuttle station where students are picked up every six minutes.

We’ve re-envisioned traditional student living to bring you an experience that is truly in a league of its own. With 24-hour access to an elite JIM fitness center featuring resistance equipment, free weights, state-of-the-art cardio machines, a spin room and free tanning, plus our fullservice business center with HPs and free printing and private study rooms, residents can take care of what’s most important whenever their schedule calls for it.

At The Scarlet, you

MOVIN’ ON UP Five hacks for making moving easy • Don’t have a dolly for heavy items? Try using a skateboard instead.

• When packing, think about giving away or selling items you no longer need • Use plastic zipper bags to move small items (jewelry, makeup, etc.)

• Use old T-shirts and towels to wrap breakables • Pack items you will need immediately (laptop, books, makeup, work necessities, etc.) last so they will be easily accessible when you start unpacking in your new place Source: www.apartmentguide.com/ blog/fan-submitted-smart-hackseffortless-move/

SPONSORED CONTENT won’t simply sign a lease — you will become a member of boutique student club living. Our must-see amenities also includes our signature JOE bar serving Starbucks coffee with a variety of creamers and sugars to customize your cup, a Red Raiders War Room loaded with plush lounging furniture and ceiling-mounted TVs ready to catch every big game, and outdoor basketball and volleyball courts ready for any pickup game. Residents love coming home to a stunning resort-style pool and hot tub with towel and lotion service.

Our beautiful, fully furnished apartments come complete with full-sized kitchens, walk-in closets and their own private washer and dryer. As a resident of The Scarlet, you’ll be treated as a VIP with our guest services and vibrant social community that encourages you to live life the way you want.

Each unique living space comes outfitted with a 50” flat-screen TV, hardwoodstyle flooring and private bedrooms and bathrooms.

With one-, three- and four-bedroom floor plans available, individual leases and our roommatematching service, we are happy to accommodate your unique living preferences. Plus, our petfriendly living, all-inclusive rent and exceptional customer service make this the best choice for any student wanting to succeed to have everything at their fingertips.

Our office hours are from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. MondayFriday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. on Sundays. We are located at 2202 Mac Davis Lane and can be contacted at TheScarlet@clsliving. com or by phone at (806) 747-2340.

Contact us or stop by today to learn more. Hurry, limited spaces are available.

For more details or to apply online, visit www. livethescarlet.com.

Images courtesy of The Scarlet

Each apartment at The Scarlet comes fully furnished with a 50-inch flat screen TV, hardwood-style flooring and a washer and dryer. The complex also features a variety of amenities to enhance your experience, including a coffee bar serving Starbucks coffee, a Red Raiders War Room lounge and a resort-style pool.

American Campus Communities provides options to students

Experience the best in college living at an American Campus community.

You’ll love our modern, fully furnished apartments, flats and townhomes with private bedrooms and bathrooms, hardwood-style flooring, fully equipped kitchens and more. With our keepfit amenities, convenient, close-to-campus locations and resources for academic success, American Campus Communities are designed with students in mind.

Check out Texas Tech’s best off-campus student housing at any American Campus community: • 21Hundred at Overton Park (opening Fall

SPONSORED CONTENT 2017) — two-, four- and five-bedroom apartments, 2100 Mac Davis Lane • U Club at Overton P a r k — f o u r- b e d r o o m townhomes, 2210 Glenna Goodacre Blvd.

• The Village at Overton Park — two- and fourbedroom townhomes, 2408 Mac Davis Lane • 25 Twenty — one-, two- and four-bedroom apartments, 2520 Marsha Sharp Fwy. • University Trails — one-, two-, three- and fourbedroom apartments, 2210 Main St. • University Pointe — two-, three- and four-

Map courtesy of American Campus Communities website

American Campus Communities operates seven apartment complexes near the Texas Tech campus.

bedroom apartments, 2323 Glenna Goodacre Blvd.

• Raiders Pass — two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments, 3120 Fourth St. We believe every student should love where they live. That’s why our No. 1 priority is delivering the best possible experience for students — at

every price point. It’s the goal we continually strive for and the mantra that shapes our values as an organization.

At American Campus Communities, our mission is to make your experience at Texas Tech University a success. It’s not just about a great apartment and

great amenities. It’s about giving you the resources and academic environment you need to succeed with a college experience you’ll remember.

For more information or to apply online, visit AmericanCampus.com. You’ll see why we say, “You’re going to love it here.”

Looking for a place to live? sublease your apartment? a roommate? or a job?

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Balance amenities, academics at 21Hundred at Overton Park Going to college at Texas Tech is extraordinary — live accordingly at 21Hundred at Overton Park, Lubbock’s newest off-campus student community opening in Fall 2017.

Our modern, fully furnished apartments feature private bedrooms and bathrooms, leather-style sectional sofas, hardwoodstyle flooring and fully equipped kitchens with quartz stone countertops and stainless steel appliances. Each apartment includes a full-sized washer and dryer. There are two-, four- and five-bedroom floor plans offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and covered patios and private balconies are available.

You can stay fit, healthy and happy with our stateof-the-art fitness center

SPONSORED CONTENT with strength equipment, cardio machines and free weights. Enjoy two swimming pools with hot tubs, sun decks, poolside cabanas, outdoor gaming areas and a sand volleyball court.

You’ll love our recreation center with billiards, foosball, ping-pong, ring on a string, arcade games, outdoor gathering pavilion and multimedia area with gaming systems.

We also make sure you have the resources you need to succeed with our Academic Success Center featuring iMacs and free printing, group and private study lounges and an iPad bar. Internet access is included in every apartment and Wi-Fi hotspots are set up throughout the community.

Image courtesy of 21Hundred at Overton Park

In addition to modern, fully furnished apartments with private bedrooms and bathrooms, 21Hundred at Overton Park features a fitness center, two swimming pools, a recreation center with a variety of games and an Academic Success Center with iMacs, free printing, study lounges and an iPad bar.

Covered parking is available, as is bike storage. The community offers a 24-hour, on-call staff, as well as on-site management and maintenance.

With our convenient,

close-to-campus location, you’re right where you want to be. You can walk or bike to class and you’re just minutes away from Jones AT&T Stadium, Dan Law Field and other campus

Cottages at Abbey Glen designed for comfort At The Cottages of Abbey Glen, our amenities are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind.

Each apartment includes a gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances (refrigerator with ice-maker, stove, microwave and dishwasher), washer and dryer connections, large walk-in closets, ceiling fans and a cozy fireplace (in select units) for those chilly winter days.

Stroll through our tranquil grounds or lounge next to our resort-style, beachfront pool complete with a sundeck, cabana and a 70-inch flat-screen TV. Then enjoy lunch in our picnic area, which includes built-in barbecue grills. Or get your heart rate up at one of our 24-hour fitness centers. Need to get a little work done before rec time? Our clubhouse features a business center.

The Cottages at Abbey

SPONSORED CONTENT Glen, which opened in November, is a pet-friendly community with an onsite dog park that’s sure to provide plenty of fun and exercise for your four-legged friend.

We also offer open parking, with attached and detached garages, and a courtesy patrol service. Onsite management offers package-receiving and onsite maintenance as well.

Floor plans run from a tidy 789 square feet to a spacious 1,176 square feet, and select units feature private patios or balconies.

Feel like exploring your new neighborhood? Located at 5240 114th St., we’re conveniently tucked away in the prestigious Vintage Township area located within minutes of some of Lubbock’s best shopping —

Images courtesy of The Cottages at Abbey Glen

One of Lubbock’s newest complexes, The Cottages at Abbey Glen, offers floor plans ranging from 789 square feet to 1,176 square feet. Some units also feature private patios or balconies.

South Plains Mall, Kingsgate Shopping Center and more. Several restaurants, as well as the Stonegate Golf Course, are in the neighborhood. We offer convenient access to Loop 289, making it easy to get to and from your classes at Texas Tech.

Discounts for Texas Tech

students and employees are available.

For more details or to apply online visit www. cottagesatabbeyglenapartmentslubbock.com. More information also is available by calling 806-698-6046 or emailing abbeyglen@ caseusa.com.

locations. Located in close proximity to many shops and restaurants, 21Hundred at Overton Park features easy access to other Lubbock shopping and dining locations via the

Marsha Sharp Freeway.

For more information or to apply online, visit 21HundredatOvertonPark. com. You’ll see why we say, “You’re going to love it here.”

APARTMENT SHOPPING Preparing to strike out on your own and experience apartment living? Here are a few tips from the Texas Apartment Association that might help streamline the experience of planning for and finding that first apartment: • Set a budget you can afford. Remember you may be required to pay for utilities and other related household expenses not included in your rent.

• Check your credit and clear up any problems/mistakes prior to filling out rental applications.

• If you are under 18, a student or you don’t have enough income to qualify, you may be asked to secure a guarantor.

A guarantor is often a parent, relative or someone who agrees to pay your rent if you are unable to do so.

• Make a list of features you’d like to have — a pool or a workout room, for example — and use your checklist when reviewing apartments you’re considering.

• Visit properties you’re considering to see how well they’re maintained.

• Visit potential properties at night to see if they’re well lit.

• Talk to existing residents about their experiences. How satisfied are they with the property? How efficiently were repairs or other problems handled? Would they recommend the property to friends?

• Ask the leasing agent/property manager how emergencies are handled and how crime/safety concerns are communicated to residents.

Source: http://www.taa.org/renterinfo/rentingbasics

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Capstone Cottages of Lubbock to debut for fall 2017 semester SPONSORED CONTENT Capstone Cottages of Lubbock is an all-new complex with luxury cottage, duplex, triplex and quadplex units.

We offer resort-style amenities for students of Texas Tech and are located near the Tech campus.

Our complex opens in fall of 2017 with three-, fourand five-bedroom units.

Our units feature private bathrooms for every bedroom, all new stainless steel kitchen appliances and a washer and dryer in each unit.

The best part is that with the cottage-style housing, there will be no unit above or below you.

Our 24-hour clubhouse consists of a fitness center,

Images courtesy of Capstone Cottages of Lubbock

Capstone Cottages of Lubbock will open in the fall of 2017. The complex will feature three-, four- and five-bedroom cottages. Each bedroom has a private bath and the units also include a washer and dryer. The amenities include a 24-hour clubhouse and a dog park complete with pet-washing stations.

computer lab, study rooms, tanning beds, sauna, steam room, multi-purpose room and entertainment room.

You also will enjoy the out-

side courtyards consisting of a resort-style pool with Vegas-style cabanas and community grills.

Outside you will also

find a sand volleyball court and a dog park equipped with pet-washing stations.

The monitoring systems in each unit and our gated

community are sure to give you peace of mind when living away from home.

With all of the latest and greatest amenities, in

addition to our fun-filled resident-event program, Capstone Cottages is where you will cultivate your own ideal college lifestyle.

Many factors should be part of decision to live with significant other Column by Alexa Boutwell DT Sports Editor

When one has a significant other, there are certain steps to take before officially tying the knot. It’s like the old nursery rhyme — first comes love, then comes marriage, then comes a baby in a baby carriage.

To be honest, that scenario is unrealistic in the age we live in. In my relationship, I decided to skip a few steps and take the plunge to move in together before marriage.

This may be a little controversial, but it felt like the right step for us to take — after all, we have been together for four years.

With that being said, there are issues when living with a significant other.

Do I regret this decision?

No. Do I wish I would have thought things through before I entered this scenario?

Yeah, probably.

Let me start by saying

I love my boyfriend. He is sweet, funny and extremely caring. However, the man lacks certain skills I find essential to upholding a balanced and pleasant household.

I usually get off work around midnight and the only thing I want is to come home to a clean house. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case.

When I walk through the door, I see dog toys all over the living room floor, dirty dishes scattered across the counter and even trash in the sink. In the sink! For someone who stresses and takes pride in were they live, this is unacceptable.

I like things clean and in order. In my opinion, a clean environment is a happy environment. My boyfriend has a different approach.

His closet being stacked to the ceiling with dirty clothes and crusty socks is his form of organization.

Yes, living with a significant other is stressful to say the least. But is it worth it?

Absolutely.

Like I stated earlier, I get off work pretty late. After trying to balance school with work, I come home worn out and in tears. I was diagnosed with GAD, generalized anxiety disorder, along with major depressive disorder in the eighth grade.

To put it lightly, I’m an emotional ticking time bomb.

The saving grace in my life is that dirty, unorganized man. When I walk in the door completely broken, he is there to catch me. He lifts me up when I’m down.

Having him physically in my presence when I get home and have been through a difficult situation is so essential to my happiness and sanity.

Oh, did I mention he cooks? I’ll be honest. The way to my heart is with food.

When he knows I’m

upset, he has a tender, rare steak and bottle of red wine waiting for me.

Simple gestures like this is why living with the one you love is so beneficial.

Being three hours away from my family means they can’t always be there when I have a mental breakdown.

But my boyfriend is.

Having someone who I know loves me, despite my many issues, at home is such a comfort. When I cry, he gives me his shoulder to lean on. When I’m angry, he does something absolutely goofy to make me laugh. And occasionally, he does clean.

He may be messy. He may be forgetful. He may be a lot of things. But he is there for me when no one else is. He is kind. He is loving, and he believes in me.

That’s what is so special about living with a significant other. You always have someone on your side.

If he had his place and

Photo by Alexa Boutwell/The Daily Toreador

When making the decision to move in with a significant other, compromise may be necessary on several issues, including cleaning habits.

I had mine, what would I do when I got home in a depressive state? I honestly couldn’t tell you, but I know it would not be pleasant.

Despite his many faults and lack of organizational skills, that man is my life.

The sinful, unmarried living situation we are in is something I will never regret.

I have gotten to know all of his faults just as he

has with me. I know this man. I know his sleeping habits, how he operates and his cleaning skills, or lack thereof.

I’m not trying to convince anyone to move in with their significant other.

I’m simply saying that living together helps you get to know that person’s true self, and I love the man I’ve gotten to know.

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Students’ needs, convenience primary concerns at 18Nineteen

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LEASE LOGISTICS You’ve found the perfect place to rent. Now you need to take a close look at the lease to determine what your obligations are and what you can expect from the property owner/ manager.

The following is a list of things you should look for in your lease: • When is the rent due? To whom is it paid? Where?

• Is there a late fee if the rent is not paid on time? How much is it and when does it apply?

• How much notice must you give before moving at the end of your lease?

• What will you be responsible for if you move out before the end of your lease?

• Can you have roommates/what is the policy about roommates?

• What restrictions will affect your security deposit refund?

• What are the property owner/manager’s obligations regarding needed repairs?

How should repairs be requested?

• What does the rent include (furniture, utilities, parking, amenities)?

• Are there any requirements for cleaning the apartment/house when you move?

• Are there prohibitions against subletting?

• Are pets allowed?

Source: www.taa.org/renterinfo/rentingbasics

ABOVE: The units at 18Nineteen feature two- and four-bedroom layouts that are fully furnished and feature stainless steel appliances in the kitchens. The complex also offers a valet trash service that eliminates the need to haul trash to the dumpster. BELOW: The outdoor space features a variety of amenities including an aqua theater in the pool area, a putting green and a sand volleyball court.

18Nineteen is Texas Tech’s preferred student living community conveniently located on Glenna Goodacre Boulevard, directly on the TTU shuttle line.

Newly opened for the 2016-2017 academic year, 18Nineteen offers students premium apartments at a price they can afford. Students will find the two- and four-bedroom apartments fully furnished with all stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, 1 GB high-speed internet and 55” Smart TVs in each unit.

The all-inclusive rental packages, secure on-site parking and pet-friendly environment make 18Nineteen ideal for any student.

18Nineteen also offers several amenities that only can be found at the property including a large aqua theater in the pool area (perfect for catching the game

SPONSORED CONTENT or a hosting a movie night) and valet trash service.

“I love the fact that I don’t have to haul my trash to the dumpster,” said one resident of 18Nineteen. “The valet trash service permanently crossed a chore off the list for me and my roommates.”

The property staff puts students’ needs first, offering 24-hour computer and study lounges, free printing and, of course, a fully stocked Starbucks coffee bar free for 18Nineteen’s residents.

Students also will find several areas to relax around 18Nineteen like the large resort-style pool with sun deck and cabanas, outdoor grilling areas, two dog parks and a relaxing water feature, the perfect area for catching up on a good book or studying.

The active student also will find two 24-hour, stateof-the-art fitness centers with free weights and cardio equipment, including Stairmasters in each gym.

18Nineteen also has an outdoor activity courtyard featuring horseshoes, bocce ball, a putting green and a sand volleyball court.

The property also includes two stand-up tanning beds free for residents to use.

For more information about floor plans or to apply online, visit 18nineteenlubbock.com.

18Nineteen has something for everyone. Whether you are studying in the private study lounge, grabbing that last-minute cup of coffee on your way to class, relaxing by the pool or enjoying the sand volleyball court with friends, you will be proud to call 18Nineteen your home.

Creativity key to decorating room on budget Column by Avery Aiken DT Opinions Editor

It’s a good thing Pinterest has an abundance of ideas for how to decorate on a dime because, as college students, sometimes the most we have is about 10 cents. That might freak you out, but fear not. I have some ideas to share.

Let me take you back to the July right before I left for my first year at Texas Tech.

I made a list. A really, really long list of all the things I could possibly need for my room.

Then, I bought all of those things. I bought picture frames and little white dishes. I bought lamps and baskets and throw pillows. I packed it all up in boxes and I stretched thick, clear tape over the tops of those boxes.

My dad — bless his patient soul — lugged every one of those boxes outside and carefully pieced them into our car. Then he drove and drove and drove. And when he got to Lubbock, he carried those heavy, overstuffed boxes up 12 flights of stairs to my new room.

My new, closet-sized room.

And, ironically, we could hardly fit them all inside of that comically tiny room.

The reason I include this is so that you know I am speaking from experience

when I say what I’m about to say.

Don’t buy the stuff. Don’t pack the boxes. Don’t fill your room or apartment.

You don’t need it. All you need is a Hobby Lobby and some creativity. Luckily, you have both. If you’re looking for the Hobby Lobby, it’s off of Slide Road in the southwestern part of the city. If you’re looking for creativity, well, you have a couple of months to muster some up. Until then, allow me to provide some ideas.

First idea, here we go.

Have you ever heard of

table-runner paper? You can find it just about anywhere and put it just about anywhere. My mom found a gorgeous roll of black and cream-striped tablerunner paper at a little boutique shop in Houston. She helped me cover my room’s bulletin board with it.

By doing this, she personalized a huge portion of my living space. Essentially functioning like wallpaper, the table-runner paper decorated my walls in a very clean and effective way, changing the whole feel of that tiny room.

SEE DECORATING, PAGE 14

Photo by Ciara Perozzi/The Daily Toreador

Artwork, whether in the form of posters of great artists or something you create yourself, can be a great way to decorate your room on a budget. Watching for prints and posters to go on sale can make the idea even more budget friendly.

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It’s ‘ruff,’ but pet parenthood worthwhile during college

PONDERING A PET? Having a pet while in college seems to have more pros than cons. However, the downsides, such as the time and money necessary for successfully caring for a pet, often are overlooked.

In Lubbock, about 50 percent of animals acquired by local residents are given up by their owners, according to the City of Lubbock Animal Services website.

People dumping their pets at the end of the semester or when they realize they cannot take care of them is a significant issue for cities across the country, according to the Humane Society website.

Before getting a new pet, here are a few things to consider: • Know the breed of dog: • How big will it get?

• How long will the dog typically live?

• How much do they eat?

• How much physical activity do they need?

• Does your apartment have a weight limit for pets?

• Does your apartment have any breed restrictions?

• Know your apartment’s required pet deposits and fees • Double-check your lease for any specific pet policies • Consider how much time you have for a pet • Understand the financial aspects of owning a pet • Make sure you have space for a pet to use the restroom and play • See if the shelter/breeder will help with the costs of getting the pet’s shots and spayed/neutered

FEB. 13, 2017

Image courtesy of Duncan Stanley

While pets can make wonderful companions, there are a number of important factors to consider before getting a pet while in college, especially while living in an apartment.

• Think about who/where the pet will be with during vacations Having a pet is a long-term commitment, with the average pet living about 12 years, Barbara White, a professor at Cal State Long Beach, said in a February blog posted in Dig Mag. But research shows that pets help relieve stress, anxiety and depression in college students.

“Students who have had pets at home can also find that a pet during college years away from home can be comforting and relieve homesickness,” White said. “Most pets provide unconditional love and companionship, which can bolster self-esteem.”

Sources: www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/pets-housing-renter-tips.html; Humane Society recommended pet policies, www.humanesociety.org/news/news/2010/07/ pets_at_college_072810.html; City of Lubbock Animal Services, digmagonline.com/blog/ask-the-expert/using-animals-to-improve-mental-health; Dig Mag

EXPANDING ON-CAMPUS HOUSING

Column by McKenzi Morris DT Managing Editor Everyone told me not to get a dog while in college.

They said it was too much responsibility and questioned whether I could possibly afford one on a college budget.

At first, I agreed with them. I mean, who was I to become a dog mom when I could barely take care of myself?

But, I couldn’t stop myself. I saw a mixed litter of Great Pyrenees and Anatolian Shepard puppies, and I knew I was leaving with one.

But not just any one. The one with the black spot on the top of his head and the black ring on his tail. As soon as I held him, I was a goner.

Having a dog in college, especially a young puppy, is not easy. I had to constantly watch him, train him and keep him out of trouble, all while going to class and working. I knew I couldn’t keep him in a crate all day even though driving home was tiresome and slightly irritating, especially when I would be in the middle of something. But that’s not his fault.

Potty training a young pup is difficult, even for noncollege students. When I was home, I was constantly letting him outside. Anytime I was on campus, I was worried about him using the bathroom in his crate or thinking about when I could leave to let him out. It was a constant cycle of worrying about him and worrying about me having the time to worry about him.

After some time and a lot of hard work, I got Bandit potty trained. It felt like the world had been lifted off my shoulders. Now, the main concerns I have are making sure he has enough food and toys. Unless it rains, because my very white pup has a fascination with mud.

College is stressful, and having a dog doesn’t make life any easier, but I wouldn’t trade Bandit for the world. At the end of the day, the perks outweigh the costs — no question.

Bandit is the biggest pain in my butt a lot of the time, but he’s my best friend. He’s the best cuddle buddy, workout partner, confidant and roommate I could ask for.

When I’m having a bad day, I know as soon as I get home, I’m going to get attacked with puppy loves and kisses.

I got lucky. Bandit is one of the most well-behaved dogs I have come across in my 20 years. He minds, stays out of trouble and keeps his nose clean — well, kind of. I worry about him when I’m not home, but not because I’m afraid he will tear the place apart. I worry about him being happy and not thinking I left him for forever.

Making sure Bandit is welltaken care of is my top priority.

Yes, I care about school and making good grades, but at the end of the day, he depends on me for everything. If I fail him, what kind of person does that make me? College is stressful and so is having a dog. But Bandit is my best friend, and the stress is worth it.

Photo by Justin Rex/The Daily Toreador

Photo by McKenzi Morris/The Daily Toreador

The new Honors Hall currently is under construction on the northwest part of campus near the Jerry S. Rawls College of Business Administration. The pod-style residence hall will feature a Starbucks, movable furniture and a multi-purpose classroom. It is set to open for the Fall 2017 semester.

Having a dog while in college is hard to manage, but the benefits outweigh the costs. Dogs provide companionship that makes all the trouble worth it.

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HOUSING GUIDE

FEB. 13, 2017

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HOUSING GUIDE

FEB. 13, 2017

The Holly creates sense of community Home to the most amenities in Lubbock and the only beach in West Texas, The Holly is the hottest spot for Texas Tech students to call home.

Our beautiful community stretches more than 30 acres with its own beachentry lake stocked with almost 2,500 fish waiting to be caught by our outdoorloving residents. Lakeside fun also includes a dock with paddleboats, our own floating island to visit and a lighted jogging track perfect for twilight runs.

Our residents can host a barbecue under the stars at our community picnic area with grills or swim laps at The Holly Swim Club, which is made up of two large resort-style pools with lounges and complimentary towel and lotion service. And if there is still time in the day, residents can enjoy our outdoor basketball and sand volleyball courts or take a pet for playtime at our fenced-in pet park.

Inside, our all-new clubhouse is loaded with must-see amenities second to none. Designed by renowned New York City interior designer Jon Call, every inch of the clubhouse is remarkably beautiful and serves a purpose to enhance the lifestyle of our residents.

Along with our on-site management offices, residents can enjoy our JIM Fitness Center complete with an array of equipment, free weights, stateof-the-art cardio machines and free tanning to give you a sun-kissed glow all year long.

If a pick-me-up is in order, residents can swing by our JOE bar serving

Images courtesy of The Holly

The Holly features a variety of social and study spaces, including the main clubhouse and a library. There also are two private conference rooms available. Students who live at The Holly aren’t just residents, they are members of a boutique student-living environment. The complex also features two resortstyle pools, a lighted jogging track and a beach. There’s also a lake, which is stocked with fish, and a floating island.

SPONSORED CONTENT Starbucks coffee with all the finishes for the perfect cup before or after class.

At The Holly, there are many social and study lounge areas too. In the main clubhouse, residents can sit amongst the black, white and gold accents while cramming for a test or hit the books in our library overlooking the gorgeous swim club. For those needing a quiet spot or looking to host a group study session, two private conference rooms are also available.

At The Holly, you won’t simply sign a lease — you will become a member of boutique student club living. Whether you’re

sunning along the private beachfront lake, hosting friends in the library or enjoying a workout at our JIM Fitness Center, you’ll be able to nurture your creativity and live like an icon.

As a member of the Campus Life and Style Autograph Collection, The Holly apartments are in a league of their own. Each fully furnished suite offers private bedrooms, private bathrooms and full-sized kitchens. Enjoy a private patio or balcony and take in the views right from your own home.

We are happy to accommodate your unique living preferences and offer individual leases for each of our two-, three- and four-bed-

room apartments. When it’s time for class, our shuttle service to and from Texas Tech ensures you don’t have to settle when it comes to resort-style living and an active student lifestyle.

Our guest services team is here to support your every need as a thriving student. Contact us today to secure your space. Hurry, spaces are filling up fast.

Our office hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., MondayFriday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. We are located at 3710 Erskine St. and can be contacted at (806) 744-3425 or by email at TheHolly@clsliving.com.

Please visit our website at LiveTheHolly.com for more information.

ROOMMATE ETIQUETTE You may be sharing space with a stranger. Your best friend. Or someone you’ve been acquainted with for a while but really don’t know too well. Whatever the case, what’s the best way to get along?

Follow these simple rules of roommate etiquette to avoid some of the stress that living with roommates can bring: • Establish some ground rules regarding class and work schedules, sleep schedules, etc. Try to iron out potential conflicts before they arise.

• Keep the noise to a minimum and invest in a good pair of headphones.

Whether it’s the TV, video games, a repetitive snooze alarm or an audio rehash of this morning’s chemistry lecture, remember you’re not the only person who can hear what’s going on.

— Cengage Brainiac • Decide what items in the room will or won’t be shared (laptop, refrigerator, TV, etc.).

• Agree that no clothing, food, technology or any other items will be borrowed or shared without permission and stick to the agreement.

• Be respectful of the space. Keep your area picked up and don’t be lazy about shared cleaning responsibilities

(taking out the trash, cleaning out the shared refrigerator, etc.).

• Discuss in advance how situations involving visitors and overnight guests (particularly a boyfriend or girlfriend) should be handled. Avoid making your roommate feel unwelcome or uncomfortable in his/her own room. — The Etiquette Professionals • When your roommate requests some quiet time, give it to him/her.

He/she will more than likely return the favor when you’re ready to study for that big exam.

• Avoid doing things in your dorm space that could make your roommate uncomfortable. You may feel completely comfortable lounging around in your birthday suit; however, your roommate may not share your enthusiasm. — Campus Personality • When conflict arises, talk directly to

your roommate, then involve a community adviser or apartment staff member if necessary.

• Take care of your own pet. If you and your roommates have agree to allow a pet in the apartment, you should still take responsibility for its care. Feeding, walking and cleaning up messes are what make you a responsible pet owner and it’s crucial in a shared living space.

• Don’t gossip about your roommate. Remember, shared spaces mean neither of you really has any secrets so the other person has gossip fodder, too.

• Don’t get your feelings hurt if your roommate makes plans without you.

Just because you are sharing living space doesn’t mean you will necessarily be best friends. Plus, it’s good to have a diverse friend group.

Sources: www.cengagebrain.com, www.etiquetteprofessionals.com, m.facebook.com/notes/campus-personality/campus-roommate-etiquette-tips, Texas Tech University Student Housing, etiquette.about.com/od/RelationshipEtiquette/fl/12-Rules-of-Roommate-Etiquette.htm

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PREPARING TO MOVE • Find free boxes — Go to grocery stores or ask friends where they’ve had luck finding boxes • Pack clothes on hangers — Zip-tie hangers together to make carrying easier • Use furniture drawers — Fill empty drawers with things you want to move • Color-code boxes — Mark packed boxes to specify destination room (example: yellow=kitchen, red=bedroom) • Wrap & pack vertically — In the kitchen, wrap and pack plates vertically so they’re less likely to break • Wrap & pack breakables — Use bubble wrap or packing paper to wrap mirrors and pictures and secure with tape.

Place in a box and fill empty spaces with crumpled paper.

• Use towels & sheets — Save money on packing materials by using your towels and sheets to help pack breakables • Scrub it with soap — Use a bar of white soap to help fill small nail holes left in walls. Just rub the hole with the bar of soap until filled.

• Pack a TV — Cover with a sheet or towel, then with bubble wrap or moving pads. Wrap with tape before placing in a box. Always remember to keep your flat screen sitting upright.

Source: blog.apartmentguide.com/9-apartment-moving-hacks/

Toreador Housing website allows users to find best places to live

Image courtesy of ToreadorHousing.com

The Toreador Housing website is a free resource that allows users to search for places to live by a variety of criteria, including price, number of bedrooms and distance from campus.

Toreador Housing is the newest tool available to help people in the Texas Tech community find the perfect place to live.

Available through the website of The Daily Toreador, the student publication at Tech, Toreador Housing is a free resource that enables users to review local apartment complexes with specifics in mind: distance from campus, number of bedrooms and/or bathrooms, and minimum/maximum price.

Through the easy-touse search function, a Toreador Housing user can generate a customized list of apartments that best fit his or her wish list.

Need something within walking distance to Tech? Sort apartments by distance (in one-mile increments) from campus. Have a specific budget in mind?

Set a minimum and maximum price to narrow your search. Toreador Housing is your onestop source for updated information on Lubbock’s rental market.

Search results provide addresses, prices and the types of rental units available, as well as a detailed map that denotes locations in relation to the Tech campus.

SPONSORED CONTENT Users can click on an apartment photo for more information, including additional photos, floor plans, amenities and contact information.

Users also may choose to browse all participating apartment complexes without use of the search function.

“Relocating can be s t r e s s f u l . To r e a d o r Housing is a great resource for anyone to use when they’re looking for an apartment,” Dawn Zuerker, advertising manager for The Daily Toreador, said. “Everything is in one place so it’s easier to compare apples to apples. There’s a lot of helpful information to assist you in making an informed decision.”

Complexes currently profiled on the site include 25Twenty, Anatole at City View, Raider Walk Apartments, Raiders Pass, The Ranch, U Club Townhomes at Overton Park, ULofts Apartments, University Courtyard, University Pointe, and University Trails.

To visit the site, go to www.dailytoreador.com and click on Toreador Housing (in the black bar near the top of the page).

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HOUSING GUIDE

FEB. 13, 2017

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ULofts offers prime location, all-inclusive amenities for residents

At ULofts Apartments, location is key.

Have everything you ever wanted in one place while taking advantage of our great amenities and convenient location. As a resident, you simply can relax in your home away from home right across the street from Texas Tech.

Your next apartment is located on University Avenue — the shortest walk to campus from any offcampus community.

We offer spacious oneand two-bedroom floor plans. ULofts is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy their personal space. All apartments are fully furnished with leather couches, all-inclusive designer kitchens, private bathrooms and a full-sized washer and dryer. All utilities plus cable and highspeed internet are included in your rent and there are no caps. That means one check a month — that’s it.

Enjoy a workout on your

own schedule in our 24-hour fitness center or hang out by one of our resort-style swimming pools. ULofts residents also have access to a free stand-up tanning bed, a movie theater, and clubhouse with billiards and poker tables.

Other amenities include two conference rooms for group study and meetings; resident lounge areas; a computer lab with Apple and Microsoft computers and free printing; and outdoor courtyards with a fire pit, barbecue pit and picnic pergolas. On-site covered parking also is available.

Our professional onsite staff is dedicated to serving your needs and arranging resident events to help you get the most out of your college experience.

We also provide 24-hour emergency maintenance.

Aside from being across the street from Tech, there are many dining and shop-

DECORATING, FROM PAGE 10 The second idea my mom and I craftily pulled together was using posters from Texas Tech’s semesterly poster sale to decorate my walls. I know what you’re thinking. “My goodness, how lame? This girl hung One Direction posters all over her room.”

No. No, I did not. I collected posters of art. Paintings by Monet and Van Gogh and Klimt adorned my walls.

They made my room feel elegant and house-like. Those posters were my favorite decorating ideas we had.

Third idea: change your lighting. Change all of it.

Any light bulbs you can switch, replace with warmer, yellow light bulbs. Florescent, LED light bulbs are no good. Lighting sets the tone for everything, so, if your lighting is cold and bluish, your room will feel

cold and you will feel blue.

In order to fully address my room’s lighting situation, my mom cleverly fastened a Command Strip hook to my ceiling and draped a hanging lamp over it. By doing this, she provided me with an alternative lighting option.

Instead of having to turn on either my overhead lights or my desk lamp, I could turn on a warm, glowing light and quietly read a book or work on my laptop. I think my roommate was a little jealous of that one.

Speaking of my roommate, one thing she did which I still think is so neat was purchase a tapestry on Amazon.com for about $10.

It made a huge decorative statement in our room and covered the majority of her wall, making it one of the best $10 investments anyone could have made.

SPONSORED CONTENT

Image courtesy of ULofts

ULofts offers one- and two-bedroom floor plans perfect for those who want to enjoy their own personal space. Rent prices include all utilities, cable and high-speed internet with no usage caps. There also are conference rooms, a computer lab and outdoor space featuring a pool, barbecue pit and pergolas.

ping locations within easy walking distance of ULofts.

Stop by 1001 University Ave. for a tour today with one of our friendly leasing

agents. Don’t wait — apartments are going fast. Office hours are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. In the

Photo by Ciara Perozzi/The Daily Toreador

Decorating with books, even in the kitchen, can add a sense of warmth and personality to a room. Replacing bright-white lighting with warmer, yellow light bulbs can help create a cozy feel in any space.

Another cool way to make a huge difference in your room without spending a lot of money is by hanging up as many pictures as you possibly can. It doesn’t cost a lot to print photographs, especially if you go to Walgreens; the employees there usually are

equipped with coupons to apply to your purchase.

I’ve also found that handmade art quickly turns a cold, generic room into a home. My current roommate, Bailey, is a graphic designer and has decorated our apartment with her hand-lettered

meantime, www.uloftsapartments.com is always open and is a great way to view available floor plans, property details and to sub-

mit your application.

We know you will find ULofts Apartments is the perfect place to call home while studying at Texas Tech.

creations. She just whips out her lettering markers and beautifully scrawls some quote onto a piece of watercolor paper. It always looks absolutely stunning.

I’m also a huge fan of using books as decor. Regardless of whether you’re a human library or you can’t even finish the required reading for that one English class you’re taking, display the books you own. Fill your shelves with them. Stack them and stick an alarm clock on top. Utilize their decorative powers.

Now, I can’t forget to address the whole turningwooden-flats-into-variousdecorative-items trend.

You’ve seen it done before.

Some cool, creative girl finds a wooden flat — the kind a grocery store might receive a shipment of granola bar boxes on — and spray paints

it. Then, this artsy girl adds hooks or paints a quote on it or even takes it apart so that it can be some new craft.

Regardless, the point of all of this is to embrace the resources around you. Reuse things. Find old lamps and go crazy with the spray paint, making them new again. Buy old chairs and cover them in fabric from Hobby Lobby. Get that weird, kind of ugly vase from HomeGoods and give it a fresh coat of paint.

Take advantage of the things around you and embrace any opportunity you have to take something old or inexpensive and make it new. Make it your own, just like you make your room your own.

That way you save yourself — and your dad — a whole lot of boxes and even more money.