Penn State College of Medicine Housing: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding suitable housing is a crucial aspect of preparing for your studies at Penn State College of Medicine. This article provides an overview of housing options, encompassing on-campus accommodations, off-campus rentals, and resources for assistance in your search.

On-Campus Housing at University Manor Apartments

The University Manor Apartments offer on-campus housing specifically for medical students, graduate students, and residents affiliated with Penn State College of Medicine.

Application Process and Important Considerations

To apply for on-campus housing, applicants who are not already Penn State students must create a Penn State account. The application process utilizes pop-ups, so it's essential to disable any pop-up blockers in your web browser. Assignments are made on a first-come, first-served basis, determined by the date of the request for occupancy and then by the date the application was received.

Due to high demand for accommodations at the University Manor Apartments, it's crucial to submit your application to the Housing Office as soon as you are aware of your need for housing on campus. The Housing staff can't process applications without a requested date of occupancy. It's important to note that you should not send any money until you receive your housing assignment.

Assignment Timeline and Roommate Matching

Housing assignments for medical and graduate students are typically made from late May through mid-July as apartments become available. An earlier requested date of occupancy increases the chances of securing an on-campus assignment. Most apartments become available for occupancy from mid-June to early July after graduating students and residents have vacated their units.

Roommates are paired based on requests from applications whenever possible. If there are no specific requests, the Housing Office considers factors such as gender, applicant category (medical student, graduate student, or resident), and class year (first year, second year, etc.) to ensure compatibility. Nursing assignments are made as per an assignment schedule directed by the Penn State College of Nursing.

Off-Campus Housing Options

Beyond on-campus accommodations, numerous off-campus housing options exist near Penn State College of Medicine.

Rental Costs and Amenities

The average rent for apartments near Penn State College of Medicine is approximately $1,315 per month. The cost of student housing can vary depending on the type of accommodation and its location. Typically, student housing near the College of Medicine offers amenities such as furnished living spaces, high-speed internet access, laundry facilities, parking, and fitness centers.

Considerations for Off-Campus Living

It's crucial to remember that both on-campus Housing and Food Service Contracts and off-campus leases are legally binding agreements. Never sign more than one lease or contract simultaneously.

The university provides resources to assist students in navigating off-campus housing options. The Off-Campus Student Support team is available to help students explore their options with confidence.

Sample Off-Campus Housing Options

Here are some examples of off-campus housing options near Penn State College of Medicine, based on the information provided:

2 Bedrooms Available Now (8.2 miles from campus): \$1,750
2 Bedrooms Available Now (9.3 miles from campus): \$1,645 - \$2,000
1-2 Bedrooms Available Now (1.2 miles from campus): \$1,400
2 Bedrooms Available Now (1.4 miles from campus): \$1,050
1 Bedroom Available Now (1.4 miles from campus): \$1,295
2 Bedrooms Available Now (1.6 miles from campus):

These listings often come with specific qualifications and requirements for prospective tenants:

Income at least 3x the monthly rent
Employment and income verification
No landlord/tenant complaints or previous evictions
No unpaid car loans, phone bills, utility bills, etc.

Fraternity and Sorority Housing

Students who join a fraternity or sorority often have the option of living within that community's housing. This can provide a built-in social network and a supportive living environment.

Additional Housing Considerations

Break Access/Holiday Housing

For students requiring housing during university breaks (fall and spring), a Break Access/Holiday Housing contract is available. Students who accept this contract will be charged an additional fee per break, in addition to the room rate. It's important to note that winter break is often not included in the semester break fee. Also, students who request Break Access/Holiday Housing are typically required to purchase the service for both semesters.

Campus Meal Plans

Undergraduate students living in residence halls are generally required to purchase a Campus Meal Plan for each semester (fall and spring) as part of the Housing and Food Service (HFS) Contract.

Read also: Penn State Admission: Average ACT

Navigating Roommate Relationships

Sharing a living space with a roommate is a common experience for college students. It can be a valuable opportunity to learn about yourself, develop communication skills, and practice respecting others.

Strategies for Successful Roommate Relationships

Express your feelings without blame: Open and honest communication is key to resolving conflicts and maintaining a positive living environment.
Schedule conflict coaching: Residence Life staff are available to provide support and guidance in navigating roommate conflicts.
Connect with your RA for advice and resources: Resident Assistants (RAs) are trained to assist students with a variety of issues, including roommate conflicts.
Complete a roommate agreement: A roommate agreement can help to establish clear expectations and guidelines for shared living spaces.
Seek conflict resolution support: The Office of Student Accountability and Conflict Response offers conflict resolution services for students.

Short-Term Housing for Families of Patients

When a loved one is receiving treatment at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, several options are available for families needing a place to stay.

On-Site Accommodations

Accommodations vary by unit within the hospital. Some rooms have space for family members at the bedside, allowing them to stay close to their loved ones.

The Parsonages - Love INC of Greater Hershey

Love INC of Greater Hershey operates two homes for patients’ families who live at least one hour away from the medical center. Accommodations at the Parsonages are free, and rooms are filled as available. A referral from a social worker or care coordinator is required to arrange a stay.

Nearby Hotels and Lodging

Many other lodging options are located near the hospital, ranging from budget motels to bed and breakfasts. However, hotels are frequently full during the summer and holiday months, so it may be necessary to look for options outside of Hershey during these times.

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