With four residential dorm buildings on the Beren campus, there is ample living space for all Stern students. Yet, upon receiving the email from University Housing with this year’s housing application, students were startled to discover that the price of the 35th street dorm has nearly doubled. Already considered a bit more extravagant because it adds an extra $1300 to the cost of general housing, now the 35th street dorm will cost $2150 more than Brookdale, 36th, or Schottenstein.
Rachel Kraut, Director of University Housing and Residence Life, is not concerned that the dorm will be hard to fill, and revealed that there is already a waiting list. Dr. Chaim Nissel, University Dean of Students, confirmed that “yes, we are still seeing tremendous interest in 35th street dorm.”
However, the change in price has caused many students to re-think their dorming plans and has introduced a new layer of tension and financial pressure to the housing process for friends who were planning on moving to 35th street together.
Navah Maynard (’16) commented, “The price change was kind of disappointing and it took me by surprise since my roommates and I had already made 35th plans before finding out that the difference in price would be doubled. The situation leaves those who need their own kitchen in a sticky situation and seems unfair to those who cannot afford it.’’
At the recent town hall meeting, President Joel took the blame for the increase. The dorm, he said, is a “relative luxury,” and as such, it makes sense that it costs more. Because he felt that the $1350 was not commensurate with the value of the apartments, he suggested that the price be raised.
Ms. Kraut acknowledged that it is always a difficult decision for students and their families to prioritize financially and to determine how much extra they are willing spend on housing.
Students decide where to live based on their needs, Resident Advisor Hadassa Holzapfel (‘15 ) said. Some need a kitchen, a single room, or enjoy being at the center of the action.
Wherever you plug in your phone at night, each dorm has a fitness center, laundry room, and at least two lounges. Yet, 35th street, with its kitchen, communal living space, and modern finishes, has unique perks. “You are getting something different in 35th,” Holzapfel said.