University of Maryland, College Park: A Student Housing Review

Choosing the right accommodation is a crucial part of the college experience. For students attending the University of Maryland (UMD) in College Park, there are various housing options both on and off-campus. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of some popular student residences, drawing from student reviews and available information to help prospective and current students make informed decisions.

On-Campus Dormitories: A Glimpse into Student Life

Living in on-campus dormitories offers a unique experience, fostering a sense of community and providing convenient access to university resources. Here's a look at some of the dorms and what students have to say about them:

Washington Hall

Located on the Quad, considered the best area to live on south campus, Washington Hall's dorms themselves have received mixed reviews.

Cumberland Hall

Cumberland Hall receives positive feedback from residents. Students appreciate the individual AC units in each room, allowing for personalized temperature control, a significant advantage over dorms with centralized systems. The presence of all-gender/private bathrooms in the lounges is another perk, providing privacy that is often lacking in traditional dorm settings. While the rooms are described as standard, the combination of location, AC, and private bathrooms makes Cumberland Hall an attractive option for many.

La Plata Hall

La Plata Hall is lauded for its proximity to the North Campus Diner and other freshman dorms, making it a social and convenient location. However, its distance from most academic buildings is a drawback. Students recommend investing in an electric scooter or skateboard to navigate campus efficiently. Space can be limited, particularly in triple rooms, but double rooms are generally more spacious.

Leonardtown

Leonardtown offers spacious apartments, but its location is slightly removed from North Campus amenities.

South Campus Commons 3

South Campus Commons 3 boasts a prime location near Route 1 restaurants and the Quad, with a short walk to most academic buildings. While one of the older Commons buildings, its affordability makes it a worthwhile option. Apartments are spacious, but appliances may be outdated.

Talbot Hall

Talbot Hall provides spacious rooms shared between two people, with ample personal space and desk areas. The shared bathroom with four people is manageable, and the presence of a decently sized living room adds to the appeal.

Queen Annes Hall

Queen Annes Hall, a smaller dorm near south campus, features sizable rooms with closets and mirrored closet doors. While the rooms and bathrooms are generally well-received, the lounges are often criticized for their smell and uncomfortable, outdated seating. Air conditioning is available, but temperature control is limited.

Cambridge Hall

Cambridge Hall stands out due to its recent renovations. Rooms are slightly better than regular AC dorms, featuring towel racks, though lacking closet doors. The lounges and bathrooms are particularly impressive, with changing areas outside the showers and counters near the sinks. The building offers numerous lounges and study rooms.

Read also: Discover University View Academy

Pyon Chen Hall

As one of the newest dorms, Pyon Chen Hall offers modern amenities such as nice lounges and study rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. Washers and dryers are conveniently located on every floor. The "communal bathrooms" are individual, each room having its own toilet, shower, and sink. Its location is ideal, situated next to the new dining hall (Yahentamitsi) and the Eppley Recreation Center (gym). Rooms feature clean white walls and wood floors.

Off-Campus Housing: University View College Park

For students seeking more independence and apartment-style living, off-campus housing options like University View College Park offer a viable alternative.

University View College Park: An Overview

University View College Park, located on Baltimore Avenue, is a popular student housing complex offering a range of modern living options. These include non-ensuite, ensuite, and private bedroom apartments designed for comfortable and convenient student living. Its location near the University of Maryland and Trinity Washington University provides unparalleled convenience for students attending these institutions.

Location and Accessibility

College Park is a vibrant student city, home to the University of Maryland, which ranks highly in global university rankings. The city attracts a large student population, including many international students, fostering a rich academic culture and offering extensive networking opportunities. University View Apartments' strategic location offers excellent connectivity to nearby cities such as Washington DC, Silver Spring, and Bethesda. Convenient access to public transportation, including the College Park-University of Maryland Metro Station, enhances its appeal.

Amenities and Features

University View College Park offers students access to a supportive and student-friendly community. Modern facilities include fitness centers, study lounges, and a sundeck, promoting a balance between academics and recreation. Proximity to attractions such as the College Park Aviation Museum, Lake Artemesia, and the Smithsonian Museums enriches the student experience, combining convenience and cultural enrichment.

Read also: Student View Guide

Room Types and Pricing

University View offers various room types to suit different needs and budgets:

4 Bedroom 2 Bathroom: Starting from \$1,234/month
4 Bedroom 4 Bathroom: Starting from \$1,314/month
2 Bedroom 2 Bathroom: Starting from \$1,289/month
1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom: Starting from \$2,184/month

These rates are base rents and may exclude optional fees, variable or usage-based fees, and required charges due at or prior to move-in or move-out.

Key Amenities

Common amenities at University View include safety and security measures, flexible payment policies with up to 12 installment plans, and community features such as a fitness center, pool, and shuttle service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is University View affiliated with the University of Maryland? No, University View is a privately owned and professionally managed community.
Can I choose my roommate? Yes, you can select your roommate(s), or you can apply on your own, and the management will match you with other students based on lifestyle questions.
What is included in the monthly rental installment? Each resident pays a flat monthly rate that includes furnishings, internet, in-unit laundry, and access to community features.
What furniture is provided? The furniture package includes a full-size bed, dresser, desk, and chair in each bedroom, plus a sofa, coffee table, end table, 50″ HDTV, and entertainment stand in each living room. The kitchen is also furnished with a dining table and chairs.
Can financial aid cover living costs at University View? Yes, financial aid funds can be used to pay charges at University View, just like on-campus housing.
Are there safety measures in place? University View has a monitored fire sprinkler system, electronic locks, and individually locking bedroom doors. Community courtesy patrol officers are on-site, and management staff can be reached 24/7.
Is parking available? University View offers optional paid parking in an attached parking garage or in surface lots across the street. Limited guest parking is also available on a metered basis.
How convenient is it to get to campus? University View is connected directly to the University of Maryland campus by a footbridge and is a short walk to several academic buildings. UMD shuttle buses also serve the community, running frequently to various campus stops.

Additional Information

University View aims to provide an ultimate off-campus living experience for UMD students. On-site shuttle service and a walking bridge make commuting to campus easy. Residents can study in the Social Study area or relax in the Lounge. The community offers 24/7 access to two fitness centers, complete with equipment and a barre/yoga studio. The fully furnished homes include dishwashers, flat screen TVs, and private bathrooms for every roommate.

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