Beacon Banter – Student Perspectives
Hear from students as they talk about their housing choices.
On-Campus Residence Halls
Dave (‘25) is an international student who knew very few people when he arrived in Massachusetts. He says living on campus gave him a great opportunity to become more self-confident, while expanding his group of friends. “Through the dorms I met my current apartment roommates, became a Beacon Ambassador, and it’s how I got to meet so many wonderful people.”
Isabella (‘25) is a Resident Assistant (RA) in the residence halls. She says that living there “not only gives you independence but also a place to grow and learn about yourself. You will be surrounded by other first year students who are going through the same experience as you are! There are programs every month where students get to connect and share resources with one another.” She also advises anyone who is interested in living on campus to make sure to fill out their application on time, and to read the “What To Bring” guide before packing for move-in day.
Apartments on our Peninsula
Tanatswa (‘24) describes living in the off-campus housing adjacent to campus as “the best of both worlds,” connecting her to the campus experience, while allowing her easy access to her own space. “It has been very convenient living in Harbor Point, across the street from campus, as it is easily accessible to school. I have been able to get to all my classes on time through the shuttle.”
Boston Apartments
Esther (‘26) lives in Dorchester, a neighborhood in the southern part of Boston. “Living off campus as an out-of-state student provides me a sense of independence and responsibility.” She enjoys that she still has easy access to campus resources and activities.
Commuting from Home
Fasha (‘25) decided to move back home with her family starting in her junior year, and drives her car to and from campus. She also regularly uses the free shuttle to get across campus. “I chose to live at home since I have my own room at home, and I enjoy the freedom of having my own car and being able to go off campus whenever. It saves a lot of money in the long run.”
Latest University News
- UMass Boston Cuts Ribbon on New Student Veteran CenterOn May 7 campus leaders, students, faculty, alumni and friends gathered to cut the ribbon on a new permanent location for the Student Veteran Center on the first floor of McCormack Hall.
- First Year PhD Student Candice Koolhaas Named a National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate FellowKoolhaas’ research focuses on how people exert mental effort in everyday life.
- Staff Spotlight - John Sears from Off-Campus LivingFinding Your Apartment and Roommates: A Conversation with Off-Campus Living’s John Sears
- Parent Spotlight – Q&A with TammyAn Interview with Tammy, Mother of a Student Transitioning from Residence Halls to a Local Apartment.
- Uncharted – JFK/UMass StationThe MBTA JFK/UMass stop is just a short walk from campus!
- Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll to Speak at 2024 UMass Boston CommencementLt. Governor Kim Driscoll will deliver the keynote address at the university’s 56th commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 23 on the UMass Boston Campus Center Lawn overlooking the Boston Harbor. Driscoll is the 73rd Lieutenant Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and together with Governor Maura Healey, comprises the first all-women executive team to lead Massachusetts.