Vidette Rental Guide 2016 by Vidette Online

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’Bird on the Street:

best and worst roommate experiences

“

My roommate never cleaned up after herself. She would leave all her clothes everywhere, and I found her hair in every place of our apartment. She was a sweet girl but didn’t care much about hygiene and cleanliness.” Courtney Gura, senior psychology major

“

Before I met my roommate, I only knew of her, but I never really hung out with her. Ever since we moved in together our junior year, we have become best friends, and she’ll be one of my bridesmaids in my wedding. I am really thankful that college brought us together.” Desiree Moretti, senior speech pathology major

“

My worst roommate experience would be when I was living in Watterson and got a new random roommate. He snored really loud and it got to the point where I literally slept in my residence hall lounge some nights until I bought a really loud fan to drown him out.” Danny Gee, junior public relations major

“

I’m a freshman at ISU. So far my dorm experience has been pretty good. My roommate is really nice. She goes home a lot and is always out, so it’s nice to have some time to myself. She’s really clean like me, so that’s good. I think I made the right choice in going with a random roommate.” LeAnn Alexandria, freshman undeclared

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My worst roommate experience was my freshman year of college, when I walked into my dorm room and my roommate, who I did not know at the time, was on her bed with her boyfriend and – that says enough. It was the worst.” Jessica Tolmie, junior geology major

“

My best roommate experience was actually a random roommate and his grandparents loved to buy him food that he just refused to eat. So I basically had a stocked fridge with anything I wanted at any point in the semester.” Compiled by JENNA KADZIULIS Photo Editor | @JennaKadziulis

Scott Cleary, junior biochemistry major 1

One size apartment doesn’t fit all No need for rental panic, leasing companies offer an apartment that’s right for you TOM HEAGNEY News Reporter | @TomHeagney

will suit your needs. SAMI is probably the least known of the “big three,” though that certainly doesn’t mean it’s written off. While lacking in hen it comes to student realty companies, Illinois luxury apartments on and near campus, the company has some State University is unquestionably dominated by hidden gems if you’re willing to make a short commute to and what some refer from class. In addition, the comto as the “big three”: Young pany offers a large number of America, First Site and SAMI. low-cost apartments, and while Young America is arguably these won’t have the frills that the most popular with stusome flashier units do, they are dents. After all, it’s difficult perfect for students on a tight to miss the company’s marbudget. keting campaign — which is Lesser-known, but not lesser driven in large part by its disin quality, are smaller comtribution of T-shirts featuring panies such as Walk2Class, its company logo to seemingly Meredith’s Properties, Redevery student on campus. bird Property Management Young America offers a wide and Class Act Realty. While the variety of properties, rangunits offered by these compaing from luxury units at The nies typically fill quickly due to Lodge to simpler offerings on their smaller size, each offers Mulberry Street. No matter locations that have a respectwhere you are on campus, able amount of luxury for their Emma Horath | Vidette Photographer prices. Each of these companies Young America and its units There are many leasing options available to look through. are always nearby. also offer a more personal leasAnother major player in the ing experience, from initial unit world of ISU student realty is First Site. Known for properties such showings to routine maintenance. They’re ideal for students as The Oaks and 1010 Lofts, First Site offers a variety of enjoyable who want to feel like more than just a number. locations around campus. Most noticeable of all is the company’s No matter your budget or style, Bloomington-Normal is full new units above the Buffalo Wild Wings located on Main Street. of realty companies with options that will suit your taste. Similar to Young America, First Site’s offerings range from luxury Regardless of who you end up signing with, be sure to do your to economy. No matter what your budget, First Site has a place that due diligence and explore what each company has to offer.

Realty company info: Young America: Address: 311 S. Main St. Phone: (309) 454-2338 Leasing: opens Sept. 28 Walk2Class: Address: 301 W. Beaufort St. Phone: (309) 451-1160 Leasing: opens Oct. 3 SAMI: Address: 608 Kingsley St. Phone: (309) 888-4600 Leasing: opens Sept. 28 First Site: Address: 138 E. Beaufort St. Phone: (309) 888-4444 Leasing: opens Sept. 28

The Flats: Address: 701 S. Main St. Phone: (309) 727-4453 Leasing: open now

JSM Apartments: Address: 100 S. Fell Ave. #201 Phone: (309) 888-2599 Leasing: open now

The Edge: Address: 800 W. Hovey Ave. Suite 100 Phone: (309) 319-9108 Leasing: open now

Class Act: Address: 402 Kingsley St. Phone: (309) 454-2960 Leasing: now showing for all

College Station: Address: 9 Traders Circle Phone: (309) 454-5549 Leasing: opens Oct. 3/4

Redbird Property Management Address: 200 N Linden St. Phone: (309) 454-4888 Leasing: open now

Campus Point: Address: 1430 Trumbull Ave. Phone: (309) 452-7800 Leasing: opens first or second week in October

Meredith’s Properties Address: 2309 E Empire St. Phone: (309) 454-4100 Leasing: open now

Willow St.

The Vidette

Locust St.

Fell St.

Hancock Stadium

1. Main St.

Cherry St.

Club Milner School St.

The Bone

Mulberry St.

College Ave. College Ave.

The Alamo

University St.

Main St.

Kingsley St.

Young America

1. t for

St.

The Flats

Independents

Sami Realty

1. “The Flats” is a luxury apartment which contains a gym and pool tables!

1. “The Stilts” -It is close to the library, and it has nice bedrooms and bay windows in most units.

2. “The Edge” is very spacious. It is close to the Quad and tasty eateries.

The Edge

2. . y ve

Fell St.

the Quad

First Site 1. “West Wing” -Located on top of Buffalo Wild Wings. It’s three levels of luxury. 2. “1010 Lofts” -Luxurious apartments which offer hardwood floors. Located down Main St.

1. “The Lodge -This is a luxury apartment complex. It is close to the library and has a grilling area and a pool for residents. 2. “Kensington” -It has prime location and is very close to the Quad, Club Milner and The Bone. 3. “Rutherford” -It is also near the Bone, Club Milner and the Quad.

Infographic by Jeremy Burcenski | Vidette Art Director

Don’t get fined: keep lease policies in mind JOE MARTUZZO Night Editor

iving in your own apartment or house for the first time can be exciting, and Illinois State University students might feel tempted to do whatever they want with their newfound freedom. However, it is important to recognize the limitations of what leasers are allowed to do while living near campus. Regardless of your choice of realtor, each lease is sure to come with its own policies and stipulations that will result in penalties if broken. So before you sign your name to the paper, make sure you know what you are agreeing to. Representatives of both First Site and Young America Realty agree that the most commonly broken policy by students on campus is bringing dogs or cats into their apartments. “We love pets here [at First Site],” First Site Director of Business Ulises Napoles said. “The problem is that many of our leasers are here for only a year or two. With such a quick turnaround, we need to ensure that new leasers with potential allergies are not at risk.” Renters should be aware that many of the apartments on campus follow the same pet guidelines. Caged or encased animals, such as fish, rabbits or turtles, are usually permitted, while cats and dogs are not. If your dog or cat is a registered service animal, you can contact your leasing company to ask about paperwork that could allow it to stay with you. Other common leasing policies include forbidding smoking in apartments and houses, the inability to bring kegs inside and, in some cases, a limit

Josh Tolentino | Sports Editor

Most apartments on campus, such as Rutherford Suites, do not allow cats or dogs. on how many guests you are allowed to have over at once. “We have a ‘no large gathering’ rule in our lease, where it says no more than 20 people,” Young America Student Property Manager Randy Paulissen said. “That’s put in place just in case there is an incident where police or paramedics need to be called, we just want to make sure everyone is safe.” Failure to uphold the rental company’s policies can result in consequences of varying severity. Students can receive a warning (often for a first infraction), fines of varying amounts or for illegal or serious infractions and possible eviction. Brain Bejarano, a senior marketing major, was forced to learn firsthand just how serious these penalties can be. “I have been penalized huge for breaking the policies of my relator,” Bejarano said. “It was mostly damages and party

fines. We knew that we weren’t allowed to have a substantial amount of people in the apartment, but we still did anyways. Luckily we never had to deal with the threat of eviction, but we were fined pretty hard at the end. It was near $4,000 in fines total split between the four roommates.” Both Napoles and Paulissen agree that easiest and safest way to avoid penalization for broken policies, especially those you may be unaware of, is to read your lease agreement carefully and completely before you sign. “We do a great job of sitting students down and making sure they read through all the policies ahead of time,” Napoles said. “We also have something we call Orientation, where students are reminded of our policies again when they come to pick up their keys during the summer.” Paulissen reminds leasers that ISU offers resources to help 4

students go over their renting contracts. “Illinois State has an awesome tool for [student leasers] with the Dean of Students Office. If people have questions [about their leases] or want legal advice or something like that, they can have lease reviews done, and it’s a free resource.” The Dean of Students Office is located in room 387 of the Student Services Building and can be contacted at (309) 438-2008. Even if you are aware of the policies contained within your leasing contract, it is important to remember that a tenant is always responsible for the actions of his/her guests. Any damages or infractions incurred by visitors will be billed to the renter, so ensure that guests are aware of your location’s policies. “My biggest advice would be if you’re going to have guests over, know that you are responsible for them,” Bejarano said.

Don’t knock it ’til you try it Private renting can open doors to the dream apartment KARALYN COLLAZO Copy Editor | @dustycollazo

ith the frenzy of apartment searching in full swing, measuring all of the available options is crucial. Everyone wants the best location, price and bed-to-bathroom ratio. There is a palpable sense of urgency in the air Oct. 1 and the lines at the major student apartment agencies can rival those on Pub II Wednesdays. That being said, in all of the competitiveness it is easy to overlook a huge contender: private landlords. Seniors Kat Sampson and Miranda Ryan know first-hand the advantages of renting from a private landlord. The now roommates rented from major student apartment agencies in the past, SAMI and Young America respectively. Having experience with both types of renting lends them a unique perspective Photo submitted by Teigan Cox on the subject. Roommates Kat Sampson(left) and Miranda Ryan(right) lounge in their apartment. “With private renting you get to know your landlord; it’s a lot more personal it seems like the majority of people rent and you feel like they’ll actually help “Don’t fall into the panic of from them. you with any problem you might have. “I went along with a big agency the thinking there aren’t any The landlord has more of a connection to first time just because that’s what everythe building because they own it,” Samphouses or private apartments one else was doing. All of my friends were son said. doing it so I figured I might as well,” Ryan “The problem with the big agencies is because there are—you just said. that they have so many people and even have to look for them.” Overall, they feel that the added work though it may appear that they have a lot put into their search was worth it. Renting of staff, for them to actually help you out Kat Sampson from the big agencies, although easier, is individually is not likely to happen, at Senior Art Education Major not always the best decision for everyone. least not right away,” Ryan added. If interested, try searching the classiThe pair went on to describe the closer- cheaper,” Ryan said. fieds section of local newspapers, such knit community, a mix of students and The pair realizes that they are lucky, as the Pantagraph, and of course, the adults, that private leasing fosters. however, and that some of the fears of “Where I used to live there were so renting privately are valid and warranted. Vidette. Look on Craigslist or on the unofficial ISU Facebook groups such as Free many people living around and we would “Obviously every case is different. We lock our doors constantly. Here I know have a very special landlord and there and For Sale. Most importantly, start everyone. There are like 10 units down are definitely worse ones out there. We having conversations about private rentthis hallway and everyone’s really kind looked at four places before finding this ing. Sampson and Ryan, as well as many of their friends, found their apartment and neighborly,” Ryan said. one and some of the houses weren’t very by a word-of-mouth recommendation. Sampson and Ryan want to denounce nice” Ryan admitted. Don’t be afraid to walk up to an apartany misconceived notions about renting Renting from the big agencies can be an ment, knock on the door and simply ask privately. easier process and is largely considered a “We originally looked at the usual safer bet. Their websites are up-to-date how to get in contact with the landlord. Sampson’s last words of advice were, agencies, just trying to find the cheapest and most have features that help narrow “don’t fall into the panic of thinking there option I guess, but when Kat stumbled the search by number of bedrooms and across this place, the rent and the actual baths or rent prices. The apartments and aren’t any houses or private apartments apartment were so much nicer, the loca- leases are tailored to students, and most because there are—you just have to look tion so much better, and it’s actually a lot of them provide Wi-Fi. Not to mention, for them.” 6

Commuting options you auto know For students without cars, getting to campus can be a daily struggle; there are several other transportation options to suit off-campus needs STAR JOHNSON Features Reporter | @Star2flyy_

location faster than on foot. Students can get free bike rentals from the Student Fitness Center with As a college student, getthe Reggie Ride bike rental ting to your destination program. in a timely manner can The Connect Transit bus be stressful. There are a service is free to all sturange of transportation dents with an ID present. options for students includYou can find out where your ing walking, driving, Uber, bus is when you download bike riding and taking the the new Connect Transit bus. These odptions are mobile app. useful especially dealing Some of the frequent viswith the changing seasons. ited places include Eastland There are many locations Mall, Walmart, downtown in the Bloomington-Normal Bloomington, College Staarea that are fair walking tion, Cardinal Court, Tri distance from the campus. Towers, Heartland and Residence Halls including more. Jenna Kadziulis | Vidette Photo Editor Hewett, Manchester and The bus service will not Watterson are no more Students with vehicles can purchase commuter parking passes to park in be available on the New than 10-minute walking designated lots around campus. Year’s Day, Memorial Day, distance from the Quad. Fourth of July, Labor Day, Center on the first level of provides information on the Students with cars are Thanksgiving and Christmas allowed to park their cars at the South University Street driver with a photo ID and Day. meters around the campus. Parking Garage. There is no the location they are coming Although many students The meters are patrolled 24 overnight parking allowed in from. choose to walk to get to The pricing of an Uber ride hours a day. Meters that are the pay lots as they are closed campus or other destinafrom 4 a.m. to 6 a.m. depends on the destination located at the Speech and tions, they have more options Uber is an online mul- length. You can also save up Hearing Clinic and at Psyto choose. These transportachological Services require tinational transpor tation to $30 with the right promo tion options will save you service. Customers can use code and coupon. a permit from a.m. to 7 p.m. time in getting to class, or Biking is another option Parking is also available for their phone or tablet to use adventuring through the an hourly rate at the pay lots Uber by going to their web- for getting around. Riding Blooming-Normal area. located at the Bone Student site at www.uber.com. Uber a bike will get you to your

PARKING PASS INFORMATION

Any Guest Check of $25.00 or More Any Guest Check of

Get $5 OFF OFF

STUDENT COMMUTER PERMIT: $87/ year

Get $5

401 N. Veteran’s Pkwy.

SOUTH UNIVERSITY STREET GARAGE RED ZONE PERMIT: $369/ year

401 N. Veteran’s Pkwy. (Suite 7 & 8) (Next to CUB Foods)

(Suite 7 & 8) (Next to CUB Foods) BLOOMINGTON

309.663.1300 Bloomington We accept large parties.

NORTH UNIVERSITY STREET GARAGE RED ZONE PERMIT: $369/ year

Call for reservations & discount.

309.663.1300

We accept large parties. Call for reservations & discounts.

M-Th 11-2:30 & 4-9:30 Friday 11-2:30 & 4-10:30 Sat 11am-10:30pm All Day Dinner Sunday 12-9:30

SOUTH UNIVERSITY STREET GARAGE GREEN ZONE PERMIT: $317/ year

M-TH 11-2:30 & 4-9:30 Fri 11-2:30 & 4-10:30 Sat 11-10:30 All Day Dinner Sunday 12-9:30

For more information on parking and transportaiton, visit Parking.IllinoisState.edu or call (309) 438-8391. 7

$25.00 or More

Dine-in & Dinner Only. One coupon per check. Not valid with other discounts, specials or on Holidays. Must present coupon. Exp. 05.31.16 BEFORE TAX. KOBE STEAKHOUSE 309.663.1300

Dine-in & Dinner Only. One coupon per check. Not valid with other discounts, specials or on Holidays. Must present coupon. Exp. 09.1.16 BEFORE TAX. KOBE STEAKHOUSE 309.663.1300 Any Lunch Sushi Buffet

Any Lunch Sushi Buffet

Get $2

OFF

Get $2 OFF

Dine-in & Dinner Only. One coupon per check. Not valid with other discounts, specials or on Holidays. Must present coupon. Exp. 05.31.16 BEFORE TAX. KOBE STEAKHOUSE 309.663.1300

Dine-in & Dinner Only. One coupon per check. Not valid with other discounts, specials or on Holidays. Must present coupon. Exp. 09.1.16 BEFORE TAX. KOBE STEAKHOUSE 309.663.1300 Walk-In’s & Take-Out . Reservations Welcome . Full Bar

Tips to avoid getting tricked KARALYN COLLAZO Copy Editor | @dustycollazo

Sometimes when the current tenants are home, looking at an apartment and asking questions can be awkward. Don’t let shyness or the booked rental representative rush you. Choosing an apartment is a major decision, and it’s easy to overlook significant flaws during all of the excitement.

Payment Before you sign a lease, make sure you know exactly what you’re paying for. Most agencies are good about letting you know if utilities are not included, but double-check just to be sure. Archive Photo If utilities are included, ask about how much your apartment is allotted a month and what you will owe if you go above it. If the agency has an online payment system, make sure you won’t have to pay a fee for using it or a credit card. Although it’s less convenient, you can always go in and pay in person. Also, if you’re in a large apartment building sometimes you can get charged for damage to communal space. If you have horrible neighbors, this can add a significant amount to your bill. Ask what the rental agency’s policy is before you sign.

The Bathroom The bathroom is arguably the most important room in the house. Most rental agencies provide a cleaning service before move in, so don’t worry if it’s not spotless. That being said, the areas you should really look at are the counter and storage space and the tub. It’s easy to dismiss a lack of space when you’re viewing apartments, but when you move in and there is no room for extra toilet paper, make-up and hair styling tools or your electric razor, you’ll be more than a little peeved. You can find an over-thetoilet shelf at most stores, but they can be pricey and hard-toassemble, as well as an eyesore. Additionally, looking behind the shower curtain is essential when apartment-viewing because you never know what you’re going to get. There could be mold, a short, puny showerhead or a leaking faucet.

Laundry When you’re moving from the dorms, sharing a washing machine and dryer doesn’t seem like a big deal. Don’t be fooled; it is. In the dorms there are multiple machines, an online view of which are open and basic courtesy rules. In an apartment, anything 8

goes. There are people who will hog the machine day and night, vandalize it or move your clothes the second they are done. Additionally, though it might not seem like it, paying for laundry adds up. It’s much more convenient when an apartment has an in-unit set up. If you’re viewing an apartment right outside of a shared laundry unit, the noise can be a major nuisance as well. Apar tment hunting can be viewed as an Archive Photo adventure or a chore. Either way, don’t let the excitement or the annoyance speed you through the process. Take your time looking through every room, down to the last closet. Most importantly, ask any question that comes to mind with confidence. Come move-in, you’ll be thanking yourself for being thorough.

Decorations from dorm rooms can be reused when you make the switch to your first apartment.

Vivian Bahena | Vidette Photographer

Making the switch from dorm to apartment living With great freedom comes great responsibility: the pros and cons of apartment life STEPHANIE RODRIGUEZ News Reporter

After two years of living the residence hall life, one can forget that there will not always be a meal ready for you when you come back from your three-hour night class — and that is the life of apartment dwellers. Transitioning from the dorms to apartments is, if anything, very exciting. If there was one way to describe it, it would be “with great freedom comes great responsibility.” When you live in the dorms you do not realize the actual cleaning portion that comes with not living on your own. First year apartment renter Amanda Dytrych said that what she misses most about the dorms is not having to clean the bathrooms. Though she misses this part of the dorm life, there are plenty of other things she does not miss. “I like living in my own apartment

because I don’t have to be checked in after 11 like you do in the dorms and that makes coming home at night a lot easier,” Dytrych said. “So that is way more convenient.” Another first-time apartment renter Samantha Cedano said that living in an apartment gives you more individual freedom than in the dorms. “When you’re living in the dorms you have to accommodate to your roommate’s style when decorating your room,” Cedano said. “Now that I have my own room I don’t have to worry about another person’s taste.” Most students who live in apartments have between one and three roommates. With this, the décor in the common areas is something that has to be mutual, but since everyone has their own room they can go in any direction they want with it. With leaving the dorm comes leaving behind the love/hate relationship you have with the dining centers. Unless you get an off-campus meal plan, which are available 9

for all students who live off-campus. The biggest thing that comes with living in an apartment is the responsibility of cooking for yourself. For some, the idea sounds great and they cannot wait to do it. For others it just sounds like another chore they need to add to their to-do list. Dytrych is one of the people who adds cooking to their list every night. “I personally don’t like cooking for myself. I’m lazy,” Dytrych said. “I never want to cook for myself so I end up eating chicken every night.” For some, the idea and action of being able to choose exactly what you are going to eat gives them a feeling of independence. “I like being able to cook for myself whenever I want and need to because it makes me feel like more of an adult,” Cedano said. When transitioning from the residence halls to an apartment, the best thing to remember is that it is not going to be the same experience, but eventually you will adapt to it.

Prioritize your housing needs LAURA ROCCO | Night Editor Contrary to what you may think, there’s not only one correct way to live off-campus. Housing isn’t a funnel that leads directly from the dorms to one of the big student housing providers. Students all have different needs, can make completely opposite housing choices and end up happy with the results. I would advise students leaving the dorms not to rush into signing for next year. There really isn’t any rush, and there will always be options available. I studied abroad during the

spring semester of my sophomore year, so I actually did need to sign a lease in the fall before I left the country. I had to push out the panic of the ticking clock and actually think about what I needed in a property. Realistically, college students don’t need to live in a five-star hotel, but we should have some standards when it comes to our on-campus homes. I knew I would want to come home at the end of a long day at school or work and completely chill: cook a meal in the kitchen, sprawl out on the couch and go to sleep, all in a comfortable environment. It was important to me that my housing would be away from loud noise so that I could feel completely relaxed when I was at home. My roommates and didn’t want to rent from a big company, so we started asking around for alternative ideas. I found a house

someone in my church was renting that was a short walk to campus (across College Avenue from Redbird Arena) but was away from any loud party houses. Living in a home as opposed to an apartment also created an inviting atmosphere that always put me at ease whenever I walked through the door. This year, we’re living in a townhouse complex near Starplex that is mainly occupied by nonstudents. Again, it’s a very chill environment with little activity going on around it. My housing choices won’t appeal to everyone. There are definitely downsides to living so far from campus. I have to drive everywhere, so late-night walks to and from Uptown locations are a no-go. It’s also a pain to commute to campus when we seem to be in the middle of a parking spot crisis. Some students will have needs that are the opposite of mine.

They need a location a short walk from campus that is geared more toward convenience than ambiance. Many students use their apartments as more of a quick stop between classes, work and other activities than for spending long periods of time there. Others are completely comfortable and at home in the social environment of student apartments and enjoy having friends and other neighbors so close. Think carefully about what kind of an environment you want to live in, and then search thoroughly for something that suits your needs. You’re obviously going to have to compromise about some aspects, but make sure that your major desires are satisfied. With all of the different options for student housing, there is bound to be something that will be, if not the perfect fit, pretty close to it.

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DIY: crafting up your abode After paying for books, tuition and rent, most students don’t have much money left for decorations; luckily, there are a ton of DIY decor for dorms and apartments

Rustic letters

This is a great craft if you want to cover up some empty wall space while making your apartment a little homier and more personal. For this craft you’ll need wooden letters, wood stain, white paint and sandpaper. Take your letter and put wood stain on it. After it dries, apply white paint in splotches. Once that is dry, take sandpaper and smooth it away until you achieve the desired look.

Supplies needed: wooden letters, wood stain, white paint, sandpaper

Cost: $8 each

Picture frame holder

Where to buy supplies: Michael’s

Supplies needed: picture

If you’re a fan of Polaroid photos or just prefer the look of unframed pictures, this is the way to go. Once you pick out the perfect frame, you can dispose of the glass and the back. After that, measure how long you’d like the twine to be, and leave a little extra so you have enough to glue the twine to the back of the frame. Cut the twine and simply put hot glue on the back of the frame at equal heights. Put glue on the top to seal the twine and prevent tears. After that, take your favorite pictures and use mini clothespins to secure them to the twine.

frame, twine, glue, clothes pins

Cost: $10 Where to buy supplies: Michael’s

Painted mason jars

Personalized Tapestry

Supplies needed: mason jar, paint, twine and artificial flowers Cost: $10 each Where to buy supplies: Dollar General

Supplies needed: tapestry, hooks or Velcro strips

First you will need to preheat the oven to 400 degrees. After that, you will need to use three coats of paint on the mason jars, letting them dry in between each coat. After the third coat, put the jars in the oven for one hour. Once the jars have cooled completely use sandpaper to remove the desired amount of paint. Once that is finished, take twine and wrap around the grooves of the jar and tie in a bow. Simply add the flowers, and you’re finished.

Cost: $15 Where to buy supplies: Amazon

A wall tapestry is the perfect way to cover up boring wall colors your landlord won’t let you paint over. If you aren’t artistically talented, you may try to pick a design online and make a stencil you can trace with pencil. After you design the layout, pick out colors and paint away! To hang it up, you can use either command hooks or command Velcro strips.

Photos and story by BETH GEISTLINGER | Sports Reporter @beth_geist

How to be the perfect roommate CASSIE MCNEILL News Reporter | @165_Cassie1

Coming to college as an incoming freshman, transfer student or even a returning Redbird living in a different location on campus always encompasses many challenges, such as starting new and vigorous courses, pulling all-nighters and inevitably living with new people. Don’t be the horror story; learn to peacefully share spaces.

1. Go into it with a positive attitude It may be hard to walk into a new situation/environment without some doubts, but try to always stay positive. Once you have that mindset it will be hard to veer away from it as the days, weeks and months go on. Remind yourself that this is a new experience and an opportunity to get the best out of it!

2. Compromise When it comes to living with other people who may come from different backgrounds, have different views, etc., coming to a mutual understanding is key. “Compromising is the most important (when it comes to co-living) because you can’t always have your way,” Illinois State University Junior and Cardinal Court Community Assistant Kamara Turner said.

Find out what you’re missing at

Bayberry Village Apartments

3. Treat others the way that you want to be treated Be respectful to your roommate(s). Be considerate and ask yourself how you would want to be treated in any given situation. Make the effort to treat your roommates and others the same way, whether it’s respecting their studying/sleeping hours or their personal belongings. “Just remember to always think about them too,” Turner said.

Located on the B/N and Nite Ride Bus Routes!

4. Respect differences

309-451-8026

If your roommates have different views or beliefs that you may not understand, be respectful. The differences between people are what make us interesting and unique. Even if you truly can’t see where your roommates are coming from. ALWAYS be courteous and civil. Having that mindset will help you avoid any unnecessary conflict or altercations so that you can instead focus on creating fun memories together.

www.BayberryVillageApartments.com

www.skyelineproperties.com

Residential and Student housing in Bloomington-Normal area

5. Be outspoken and upfront “If something your roommates do bothers you, let them know politely so it can be taken care of,” Turner said. If you are having problems with your living situation be upfront and compromise with them on a solution. This will help you build trust and mutual understanding.

PO Box 55 Bloomington, IL 61702 Tel: (309) 275-8454 Fax: (309) 378-4529 skyride53@hotmail.com

Finding the purrfect apartment can be ruff LAURA ROCCO Night Editor | @VidetteRocco

interacting with Jax helps to relieve stress. However, she also identified limited travel ability and added For many college students, the expesnses as some of the challengidea of home is not only tied to ing aspects of pet ownership. human family members, but to She advised students to consider furry (or scaly, or slimy) friends as how adopting an animal may impact well. an already tight student budget. Most student apartments in Other students want pets, but the Bloomington-Normal area ultimately decide to wait due to the have policies regarding whether limitations of college student living. they allow pets, including weight Sophomore psychology major restrictions and how the pets will Morgan Maydew and her roomaffect the conditions of the lease. mates signed with SAMI for next Students who plan to bring pets to fall, and their lease does not allow their off-campus living or to acquire pets. them once moved in should consider She said while they had discussed how this decision may impact their the possibility of bringing a cat into living and academic experience. their home, they decided it was not Several of the major housing proworth the hassle during the process viders have pet-friendly leasing of searching for an apartment. They options. Companies such as Young were looking for a location with a America, First Site and SAMI all reasonable price and knew that state on their websites that certain having a pet might increase the cost properties do allow pets. of their lease. If you plan to live with an animal, “It would be nice if pets were contact the leasing company to make Photo submitted by Vlada Gudzenko allowed, but it makes sense somesure you are viewing and signing for Senior Vlada Gudzenko poses with her cat Grimm, who what that they’re not,” she said. she adopted after moving into her apartment. one of these pet-friendly options. Maydew plans on adopting a pet These locations may require an later in her life when she is no longer agreement and a pet deposit, where a student, as she feels that having whether that be leisure activities or the person signing the lease agrees to be schoolwork.” one as a student would be a lot to handle. responsible for any damages the pet may “Especially if it was a dog, it would just While the time committment can be cause to the property. difficult, Gudzenko also described what be a lot of responsibility.” Some students who want to adopt a pet makes the hard work worth it. With the variety of housing available make pet-friendliness a top priority in “The best part about adopting those near Illinois State University’s campus, their apartment search. Senior finance two is that I always have happy faces students who are specifically looking for and risk management and insurance to come home to. They are always in a homes to share with their furry friends major Vlada Gudzenko chose to live at lovely mood and even if I had the worst will be able to find something to suit Bayberry Village because it allowed dogs day imaginable, they cheer me up by just their needs. of any size and also allowed cats. Gudzenko loves having her pets with being their goofy selves,” she said. Gudzenko and her boyfriend adopted a Senior early childhood education her, but she cautioned students to take 6-week-old puppy, Ahri, and a 2-year-old major Emily Pleasant’s roommate this decision seriously. cat, Grimm. She said that as a full-time brought home a cat, Jax, to their apart“Try not to bite off more than you can student in two RSOs and also working 20 ment in the spring of 2016. chew because you’ll just become stressed hours each week at a part-time job, it is “I’m not sure what made her decide to and overwhelmed with your situation. difficult to fit caring for her pets into her get one, but she just texted me one day Your pets need as much love as you can busy schedule. like, ‘would you care if I got a cat?’ So a give them and it would not be fair to have “Those two are the priority, and I make couple days later we had a cat.” a pet and give them less attention than sure that I am with them and taking care Pleasant said that it is nice to have a they deserve.” of them before I do anything for myself, friendly presence in their home and that 14

Move-in jams for your new digs Turn up the tunes to decorate, celebrate and break out your sweetest moves in your new home 1. “Changes” by David Bowie 2. “Comfortable Home (A True Story)” by Ty Segall 3. “New Direction” by Black Lips 4. “Elevator Operator” by Courtney Barnett

5. “A New Life” by Jim James 6. “I Got the Moves” by Habibi

7. “Gimme Shelter” by The Rolling Stones

8. “House Key” by Lolawolf 9. “Burning Down the House” by Talking Heads

The Key to

{FINDING}

Your New Place 2016

THE VIDETTE

10. “Yes I’m Changing” by Tame Impala

Fall Rental Guide Credits Cover design:

Sarah Foote Ad Production Manager

Fall Rental Guide Editors:

Laura Rocco and Joe Martuzzo Night Editors and Supplement Editors

Compiled by ANYA MALLEY | Copy Editor @AMalley_Vidette

Free covered parking

Steps from campus TheEdgeOnHovey.com 855.567.1445

LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE!

2, 3, 4 Bedroom floorplans

private bedroom 24 hour amenities and bathroom • Computer lab with free printing

• Fitness Center • Game room and lounge • Conference area 4 Bedroom / 4 Bathroom Floorplan

fully furnished 15

Unlock the door to delivery It’s not DiGiorno, it’s delivery Windy City Wieners

Jimmy John’s

These Chicago-style eateries deliver to both Bloomington and Normal and is known for its hot dogs (voted #1 in Bloomington-Normal), Italian beef sandwiches and gyros. They have a variety of specials and send discount codes to customers who order online.

With several locations in the Bloomington-Normal area, Jimmy John’s is a favorite among students. Customers can create their own sandwich or choose from classics like the Totally Tuna or the Turkey Tom.

Minimum cost for delivery: $8 Tip: at checkout or delivery

Minimum cost for delivery: $6 Tip: at checkout or delivery

D.P. Dough

Great Wall

This self-professed “original calzone company” specializes in creative calzones, including the signature Ratchet Redbird. Ordering online earns points that can be redeemed for free items on a later order. Open daily until at least 1 a.m., D.P. Dough is pizza to the next level.

A Chinese/Asian restaurant known for modern takes of classic oriental dishes, Great Wall is a favorite. Its lunch specials cost only $5.65 and include sides. It delivers within a four-mile radius of the restaurant and is open until 10 or 11 p.m. depending on the night.

Minimum cost for delivery: none Tip: at delivery

Minimum cost for delivery: $15 Tip: at checkout or delivery

Papa John’s

Insomnia Cookies

Papa John’s is a pizzeria that gives back to Illinois State University students. Any RSOs registered with the restaurant receive a code for 40% off every order. Then, 10% is given back to the RSO. Papa John’s delivers until 2 a.m.

Looking for dessert? Insomnia delivers cookies, ice-cream sandwiches and pints of ice cream until 3 a.m. every morning. These treats are the perfect sugar rush to help you get through a late study night.

Minimum cost for delivery: none Tip: at checkout

Minimum cost for delivery: $6 Tip: at delivery

Compiled by LAURA ROCCO Night Editor @VidetteRocco

You must sign a lease in October or you will have no place to live next school year.

There are plenty of apartments and time to find a place to live. Don’t be pressured by friends or leasing companies. That could result in a poor decision with serious financial consequences.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS MYTH AND OTHER INFORMATION ABOUT LIVING OFF CAMPUS, COME TO AN OFF-CAMPUS 101 SESSION AND

GET FRE E STU FF! For the full list of sessions, visit

DeanOfStudents.IllinoisState.edu .

Also check out the Off-Campus Housing Database—the only place to search for all apartments in one location—at

OffCampusHousing.IllinoisState.edu .

IO N? CA N' T M AK E A SE SSDeanOfStudents.IllinoisState.edu.

at Check out the new eModule a Keurig, ister to win great prizes like reg and le Complete the eModu many other items! grocery store gift cards, and

/ISUOffCampus

@ISUOffCampus

ISU_OffCampus

If you need a special accommodation to fully participate in these events, please contact Off-Campus Services at (309) 438-7346 or LCC.DOS@IllinoisState.edu. Please allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation. An equal opportunity/affirmative action university encouraging diversity

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