HOUSING GUIDE thebatt.com
spring 2013
Rise at Northgate 717 University Drive
Leasing Office 505 Church Avenue
6WXGLR ² %HGURRPV 3UHPLXP )LWQHVV )DFLOLW\ 3ULYDWH &OXE 5RRP +L 7HFK 6WXG\ /RXQJH 7DQQLQJ DQG 6WHDP 5RRPV
)XOO\ )XUQLVKHG :DON 2XW %DOFRQLHV :DON ,Q &ORVHWV 0RGHUQ 6HFXULW\ 6\VWHPV ,QGRRU 3DUNLQJ @RiseatNorthgate
979 260 7473
facebook.com/riseatnorthgate
rise
ga .com
thebattalion
Page 3 Housing Guide
Are you ready for off-campus living? Better get your check list made story by lindsey walters For many students, off-campus living can be a hard and stressful decision. Many decisions go into where you are going to live, how you are going to pay for things, and what you will need. Be sure to make a check list. Do your research and get advice. There is a lot more to living off campus than most students take into consideration. Sally Miller, administrative assistant of student living, tells the students to first decide what type of home they are looking for. There are houses, town homes, apartments or duplexes. One option is to individually lease your room in an apartment, where you only lease your room and are not responsible for the entire apartment. There is also standard leasing where you lease the entire apartment or house, but if one of your roommates moves out, you are responsible for their part of the rent. “We tell them to look at their budget
first and what they can afford,� Miller said. “It might be furnished and it might not, also look at what it will cost for bills each month for the size of housing you want.� Expenses that you need to include are start-up fees and bills. Start-up fees are the one-time fee that you will pay to connect the utility to your house, for example water or satellite. Bills are due each month, and they normally include your water, electricity, television, Internet and most importantly, your rent.You also have your necessity items like food.You are still able to purchase a meal plan for on-campus dining even if you live off campus, for those that do not want a large grocery bill or do not know how to cook. “I love having my own house, my own couch and my own privacy,� said Sterling Wallace, a senior animal science major at Texas A&M. “But there is a lot of things, See ready on page 27
Come home to
Quail Hollow Apartments Luxurious Living at an Affordable Price Maximizing your investment is our Priority! Lease today and receive special pricing! s &OUR SPACIOUS mOOR PLANS TO CHOOSE FROM s &2%% )NTERNET #ABLE 7ATER 3EWER 4RASH s &ULL 3IZED 7ASHER $RYER #ONNECTIONS s &ITNESS #ENTER 3PARKLING 0OOL 4ENNIS #OURT s BEDROOM UNITS AVAILABLE s 5PDATED APPLIANCES 3CREENED IN PORCHES s 0ET &RIENDLY s #ONVENIENT ,OCATION
www.quailhollowapartments.com
3535 Plainsman Lane, Bryan (just off 29th and Briarcrest Dr.) Call to reserve your home today! 979-846-1771
thebattalion
Page 4 Housing Guide
Tips on how to live safe and secure
8hWdZ d[m Available for sale or lease Call today for details
254-721-6179
www.gamedaybcs.com
story by amanda overfield Have you ever been awoken in the middle of the night because some random person was breaking into your house? If you have, you probably know that it is terrifying. Believe it or not, break-ins happen in Bryan–College Station. Home security is something that needs to be taken seriously, and taking the time to implement simple safety precautions can make all the difference. Officer Zach Martin with the College Station Police Department was nice enough to answer some questions and give advice on how to stay safe. Question: College Station is stereotyped as an extremely safe place full of wholesome Aggies who have people’s best interest in mind. Do you agree with that? Answer: “It doesn’t matter where you live, bad things happen. There is not any more or any less crime in College Station than other towns. I don’t know any town that doesn’t have crime.” Question: In your opinion, what are the most preventative actions people can
take to ensure apartment safety? Answer: “Always keep the dead bolt locked. Whether you’re home or away, this is so important and will deter a break in.” Question: What is something that is often overlooked in apartment safety? Answer: “Being informed. It is really simple small steps that will stop somebody. Remember to do the small things like always keeping your doors looked, turning on porch lights, always have your keys out so you’re not digging in your pockets or purse when you get to your apartment or car door. Just be aware of your surroundings.” Overall, he stressed the importance of ALWAYS making sure the doors are locked, both at and away from home. Living on your own for the first time is exciting, but remember it comes with responsibility.You can easily improve your chances of living safely by taking simple precautions. No one thinks a break-in will happen to him or her until it does. Safety is not something that should be overlooked or taken lightly — even here at Texas A&M.
thebattalion
Page 5 Housing Guide
Choosing where to call home story by lesli garrett Perhaps the most exciting part of coming to college is moving out of your parent’s house to live on your own. No more making your bed, putting your clothes away or following mom’s cleaning schedule. However, finding a place to call your own can be harder than it may seem. College Station has an abundance of housing developments, subdivisions and rental homes for students that the possibilities are nearly endless, so finding the best place to fit your needs often requires time and research. “Parents are always most concerned about price and safety,” Dr. Mark Vara, College Station rental property owner, said. “Students are most concerned with location and size; it can be challenging to meet both parents and student’s needs.”
One factor students tend to ignore is finding a landlord or rental property that maintains the facilities properly. This is often something not thought of until the hot water heater is broken or the air conditioner needs repair in the middle of August. It’s important that students choose properties that have a reputation for repairing normal damages in a house or apartment. Appliances are always going to break, make sure you are going to get fast service and attentiveness to detail. For many parents and students, paying tuition and daily expenses puts a burden on them and their college experience. However, College Station has a median rent of $755 per month, where as the Austin See choosing where on page 8
AY RD O 1 U T T SA :30 10
OPEN HOUSE
FOR SALE! Minutes from the A&M Vet School and the Health Science Center. Very motivated seller is offering this 3-bedroom 2-bath in the Oak Meadow Subdivision, across from Traditions Golf Course, with 1668 s.f. Built in 2003, fireplace, new carpet just installed in bedrooms. Wood laminate in the family room, foyer, kitchen, breakfast room and dining/ study area. Fresh paint interior and exterior. Upgraded lighting and hardware. Open and spacious concept with split bedroom arrangement. Large master suite with dual vanities, garden tub and separate shower. Great storage/closets in all bedrooms. Move-in condition. Even a hot tub in the backyard oasis for relaxing! Seller will purchase a one year home warranty for the new owner. Call today for information or to view this property. $156, 900.
Bill Fallwell CRS, GRI Cortiers Real Estate
979-218-8956 cell www.billfallwell.com
We Bring It Home. Comfort.
Convenience. Affordability.
thebattalion
Page 8 Housing Guide
Choosing where Continued from page 5
Welcome Home! s art ! t s t 7 Renat $ 56 day! l To Cal
✓ 24-Hour Get Fit Gym ✓ Sand Volleyball ✓ Free Wi-Fi in Community Area ✓ 24-Hour Emergency Maintenancy ✓ Berber Style Carpeting ✓ Full Size Washer and Dryer (option) ✓ Discounted Cable TV (option) ✓ Nearby Shopping Centers
Luxury Apartments at an Affordable Rate! Newly Renovated 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments Part Time and or Married Students Welcome TAMU Employees ask about our Preferred Employer Program
Stop by and visit with us today! 3625 Wellborn Rd., Bryan TX 77801
metroplex and Houston area have a median of $947 and $1,251 respectively, according to cstx.gov. Oftentimes to decrease costs, some students have to cut their cable and internet and double up in bedrooms to accommodate for more people, making rent cheaper per tenant. Apartment complexes tend to offer multiple amenities anywhere from tanning beds to basketball courts and game rooms to swimming pools. However, these extras can increase rent prices for things students may or may not want or use. “Price was more important to me than the amenities offered at most apartment complexes,” sophomore economics major Eliot Griggs said. “I don’t want to pay $100 more a month for tanning beds and game rooms I will never use.” One important factor to consider when deciding on housing that is often forgotten is the length of the lease. Many college students choose to travel abroad, intern or work at camps, etc., over the summer.
While away it is costly and burdensome to pay rent for a house or apartment they are not using. It’s wise to choose a lease that will fit your individual needs to avoid being locked into paying a year-long rent you may not need. Talk to your realtor or complex about shortening or lengthening your lease to avoid moving multiple times and paying unnecessary costs. “I have stayed in College Station every summer, thankfully my leases have been 12 months long saving me the headache of relocating for the summer or paying extra to extend my lease,” sophomore horticulture major Megan Reiley said. College Station offers students a plethora of options to call home. There are many factors that go into choosing a home or apartment and there are many ways students can be overwhelmed without proper information. Plan ahead and take your time deciding, rushing into a housing decision only causes stress in the long run.
979-846-5601 for details
First Month 1 $
Call for details!
A&B Self Storage
(979) 778-2293
1701 N. Earl Rudder Frwy., Bryan
www.AandBstorage.com
charboeg@yahoo.com
EART OF LOCATED IN THE H
AGGIELAND
UÊ ÀiiÊ } -«ii`Ê ÌiÀ iÌÊ VViÃÃÊ
UÊ > V iÃ]Ê iV ÃÊEÊ*>Ì ÃÊ
UÊ ÀiiÊ >L iÊEÊ } -«ii`Ê ÌiÀ iÌ
UÊ" iÊ V Ê À Ê/ 1
UÊ ÝÌi `i`Ê >Ã VÊ >L iÊ
UÊÎÊ,ià ÀÌÊ-ÌÞ iÊ* Ã
UÊ ÀiiÊ7>Ã iÀÃÊEÊ ÀÞiÀÃÊ
UÊ-«>À }Ê*
UÊ7>Ã iÀÊEÊ ÀÞiÀÊ Û> >L iÊ
UÊ Ài« >ViÃÊ Ê-i iVÌÊ iÃÊ
UÊ,i `i i`Ê «>ÀÌ i ÌÊ iÃ
UÊÓ{ ÕÀÊ Ì iÃÃÊ i ÌiÀ
UÊ iÜ ÞÊ,i `i i`Ê iÃÊ
UÊ i ÌÀ> Ê ÀÊ ` Ì }Ê
UÊ-«>V ÕÃÊ7> Ê ÃiÌÃ
UÊ" Ê/> ÕÊEÊ Ê- ÕÌÌ iÊ, ÕÌi
UÊ-«>V ÕÃÊ7> Ê ÃiÌÃÊ
UÊ" Ê E ÊEÊ Ê- ÕÌÌ iÊ, ÕÌiÊ
UÊ i }Ê > Ã
UÊ*iÌÊ À i ` Þ
Ç °n{È°Ó ÇÈÊUÊ >ÕÀi À `}iV i}iÃÌ>Ì °V nä£Ê-«À }Ê «]Ê i}iÊ-Ì>Ì Ê/8ÊÇÇn{äÊ
Ç °È ΰÓÇÓäÊUÊÕ ÛiÀà ÌÞõÕ>ÀiV i}iÃÌ>Ì °V ΣÎÊ V Ê Ûi Õi]Ê i}iÊ-Ì>Ì Ê/8ÊÇÇn{ä
3 1 0 2 , 3 1 L I R P A , Y SATURDA
2ND ANNUAL
PARENTS’ WEEKEND ONLY
SPECIALS SAVE $250
this weekend only!
979.703.7944 RESERVEATCOLLEGESTATION.COM R 3405 TREELINE DRIVE, COLLEGE STATION TX 77845 340
TEXT RESERVECS TO 47464 FOR INFO TEX 2%3%26%!4#/,,%'%34!4)/. s
@RESERVECS
KEEP CALM AND
FIND A
* BLE!!
A
C FREE
HOME FREE INTE
RNET
*at select properties
!!*
Arbor Square
College Main
979-693-3701
979-846-2089
The Gables
Huntington
979-693-1188
979-693-8922
Oak Forest
Parkway Circle
979-775-9000
979-696-6909
Redstone
Scandia
979-696-1848
979-693-6505
Villa West
Walden Pond
979-822-7772
979-693-5777
Newly Renovated Units t Spacious Floor Plans Close to TAMU t Pet Friendly
www.dtiproperties.com
DTI....Places to Call Home.
thebattalion
Page 13 Housing Guide
Emergency Numbers
Local Medical Services
Ambulance, Police, and Fire Departments.............................................911 College Station Medical Center..........................................979-764-5100 On Campus Emergency (from a campus phone)................................9.911 1604 Rock Prairie Road, College Station Sexual Assault Resource Center...........................................979-731-1000 Scott & White Clinic................. .........................................979-691-3300 Non-Emergency Phone Numbers 1600 University Drive East, College Station Bryan Police Department.....................................................979-209-5300 CARPOOL........................................................................979-693-9905 College Station Police Department......................................979-764-3600 Corps Escort (on campus only)...........................................979-845-6789 Department of Public Safety................................................979-776-3110 Student Counseling Helpline...............................................979-845-2700 University Police.................................................................979-845-2345
Scott & White Hospital Scheduled to open August 2013 St. Joseph Regional Health Center.......................................979-776-3777 2801 Franciscan Drive (29th Street), Bryan
A.P. Beutel Health Center
St. Joseph Express Walk-In Care 4401 Hwy 6 S, College Station............................................979-731-5200 2010 E Villa Maria Rd., Bryan.............................................979-821-7373
The mission of the A.P. Beutel Health Center is to serve Texas A&M University students through the provision of medical services and promotion of health through preventative care and education. The Health Center is located on Houston Street. Limited outpatient parking is available in the small adjacent parking lot north of the facility.
Information provided courtesy of the Offices of the Dean of Student Life Adult, Graduate and Off Campus Student Services from the Off Campus Survival Manual. This information and much more can be found online at studentlife.tamu.edu/agoss.
Phone (appointments)............................................................979.458.8250 Website: shs.tamu.edu
Transportation Texas A&M University’s Transportation Services provides a variety of options to help students, faculty, and staff get to and around campus efficiently. These transportation options include riding on or off campus transit buses (all you need to use the bus service is a TAMU ID), parking on campus, or riding a bike to and around campus. Information regarding all of these options can be found on the transportation website: transport.tamu.edu Transportation Services Parking: 979-862-7275 (PARK) Transit: 979-847-7433 (RIDE)
ALLSIZE STORAGE
WELC OM PAREN E TS!
Store Your Stuff With Us This Summer! We offer the following: Office Hours: Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sun. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Climate & Non Climate Controlled Storage • 24 Hour Video Surveillance • 24 Hour On-Site Resident Manager • 24 Hour Gate Access • Boxes, Moving & Packing Supplies
Call or come by to receive our Aggie Special!
1429 W. Villa Maria • Bryan, TX 77801 • 979-361-3333
(979) 696-5357
ONE MONTH FREE RENT DRAWING ENTRY WITH AD Free Leasing Locator
www.AtHomePM.com Join us on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/AtHomeRES
HOUSING GUIDE thebatt.com
spring 2013
HOUSING GUIDE thebatt.com
spring 2013
thebattalion
Page 19 Housing Guide
00ARD $2 TC IF G
Design on a dime: college edition story by taylor wendt It’s the start of a new semester, you walk into your new apartment, and all you can think is “wow, there is so much white.” Going from a home and a room that has had years to be personalized, and then entering a drab apartment or dorm room can be overwhelming. There are so many blank walls, so many empty rooms, and you’ve got a bedspread and a laptop to fill them. However, inspiration and design for a new home can be really easy, especially with websites like Pinterest and other design websites and blogs that have thousands of ideas to personalize your space. Roommates Alyssa Boyd and Allison
Mayo have taken their dull dorm room and made it into an eclectic, homey space just by adding a few decorations that reflect their personality. “It is fun using what you have and taking the challenge to make something unique and special out of something mundane and ordinary,” says Allison Mayo, sophomore communications major. “Look for things that are free! My roommate and I collected paint samples that we used in different ways in each of our spaces. She fanned them out and put them on a bulletin board, while I hung them on a string
PARENTS
WEEKEND ONE DAY ONLY SPECIAL BRING THIS IN FOR WAIVED SIGNING FEES!
See designing on page 20
HURRY IN BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!
I[b[Yj oekh kd_j Available for sale or lease Call today for details
254-721-6179
www.gamedaybcs.com
TEXT HEIGHTS TO 47464 FOR INFO THEHEIGHTSATCOLLEGESTATION.COM
979-485-8000 1101 LUTHER STREET WEST,COLLEGE STATION TX 77840
thebattalion
Page 20 Housing Guide
Designing Continued from page 19
and made a banner.” Color can really add pizazz and style to any room, so incorporating a piece of artwork that draws you in or adding a throw pillow can make a space feel new, and you can take these pieces with you to your next residence as well. “Anywhere you go, you can find inspiration,” says interior designer Candace Huber. “Flowers, fabrics, accessories, and artwork – you can get inspiration from anything with color and design.” Taking color or style ideas you see in stores or online, and then incorporating them into projects in your apartment or dorm is a really great start to any interior decorating. Some creative projects that can be done to make a room feel more welcoming are decorating lampshades, adding pretty curtains, putting inventive and creative things on your walls, and personalizing your apartment with pictures. Lighting makes such a difference in a room, so taking a drab, plain lamp shade, and decorating it with fabric or scrapbook
paper, adds color and life to any room. In the same way, taking a window that has the usual boring white blinds and putting brightly colored or pretty patterned drapes over it takes a bland room and makes it completely new, in such a simple way too. Pictures can also be displayed in your apartment or room, in many different ways, to personalize your space. Some great picture ideas include making a collage on your wall, creating picture canvases by mod-podging your favorite photos onto blank canvases or slates of wood, or using scrapbook paper as a backdrop in frames. “Anything can be home décor,” says Madison Ham, junior finance major. “I have fashion decorations on my wall because that’s what I love to do, so I just definitely try to put my interest on display.” The key to decorating is to think of it as a fun project and not a task on your to-do list. One fun, creative idea that is really simple is taking old glass bottles and See designing on page 23
Fox Run Condominiums 801 Luther Street West, College Station 77840
Fox Run offers: - Units for sale or rent by owners! - Spacious 2 and 3 bedroom floor plans. Each bedroom has its own private bath! - Each unit has its own washer and dryer! - One reserved parking space per bedroom, Pool and Volleyball! - Professionally managed and landscaped property! - Five minutes from campus and on the Howdy bus line! - Gated community of 128 units!
Please contact any local Real Estate Agent for available units that are for sale or rent! Buy one today and no more moving in and out and with the worry of where your student will live each year! Don’t throw money away renting elsewhere! No more leases to sign!
fall spaces GOING FAST
C A L L AWAY V I L L A S . C O M 305 Marion Pugh | 979.695 . 2300
ON-LINE Real Estate Services, Inc. s s %AST TH "RYAN 4X 302).' ,//0 4/7.(/-%3 “Unique oorplan and premium locationâ€? 1 bedroom lofts and 2 bedrooms. Ceiling fans, W/D conn. Internet and basic cable included. Excellent location for restaurants, shopping and TAMU. $
675/$750
1200 BLOCK SPRING LOOP, COLLEGE STATION
./24('!4% ,/&43 “A touch of classâ€? EfďŹ ciency and 1 bedroom lofts. Premium appliances including wine chiller and microwave. Washer/dryer incl. Ceiling fans, blinds. Walk or bike to TAMU. $
560/$725
702 GAYTHA, BRYAN
7),$% /!+ !0!24-%.43 !.$ 4/7.(/-%3 “A variety of oorplans to ďŹ t all needsâ€? 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and townhomes. Ceiling fans. Some with fenced yards. W/D connections available. Water paid. Convenient location near TAMU and Blinn. $
425/$525/$650/$750
1800 BLOCK WILDE OAKS, BRYAN
'!,,%2)! 4/7.(/-%3 “Luxury living at an affordable price� 2 and 3 bedroom studio townhomes. Ceiling fans. Privacy Patios. W/D conn. Some covered parking. Great central location. Convenient to Blinn and TAMU.
Prices range from $650 to $950 1600 BLOCK OF BARAK LANE, COLLEGE STATION
“The Sign Of Good Management� 777 "#3/.,).%2%!,%34!4% #/-
thebattalion
Page 23 Housing Guide
Designing Continued from page 20
painting the insides or wrapping them in yarn or burlap to add color to your apartment. Then, by placing flowers inside you have a beautiful table decoration that is customized just the way you like. It can also be really gratifying to search for old pieces of furniture and make them into something fun and new. Try looking at garage sales or places like Goodwill for cheap, used furniture that can be turned into something stylish and perfect for your apartment. A really popular style right now is painting old furniture a bright color, and then sand-
ing it down to give it an “aged” look. Also, recovering a chair with pretty fabric adds an unexpected liveliness to any room. “People seem afraid to decorate, but go with your gut if you really like something and you’ll figure out a way to work it in your space,” Huber says. Finally, remember that personalizing your space isn’t something that happens in a day. As you collect interesting objects, your apartment will begin to feel more like home. Keep your eye out for inspirations, and you’re almost guaranteed to come across something you can incorporate into your room.
M[bYec[ FWh[dji¸ Available for sale or lease Call today for details
254-721-6179
www.gamedaybcs.com
Don’t forget to ask about our FREE trailer drop off/delivery service when you call! s FREE Trailer Drop Off Service or FREE Moving Truck Use s 24 Hour/7 Day Access Available s Pull Through Driveway s Electronic Gate System with Individualized Gate Codes s Locks Provided s Easy Highway Access s Well-Lit s Temperature Controlled s Discounted Boxes & Packing Supplies s On-line Account Access s Owner, Class of ‘82
All Seasons Storage Centers 3201 Earl Rudder Frwy College Station, TX 77845
979-690-0500 cs @ allseasonsstorage.com w w w.allse asons s to r a g e. us
Welcome Parents’
COLLEGE STATION’S BEST
STUDENT LIVING COLLEGESTATIONSTUDENTHOUSING.COM
APPLY ONLINE TODAY BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE great location to campus + private bedrooms & bathrooms + fully furnished + individual leases fitness center + swimming pool + unique towhomes floorplans at U Club
see office for details
AGGIE STATION
U CLUB TOWNHOMES
thebattalion
Page 27 Housing Guide
Ready Continued from page 3
and a lot of unexpected expenses that you have to pay to keep things going.” Check to see if your apartment or home has a bus stop nearby. Bus routes run throughout the city. You are able to ride the buses because you pay for the transit fee in your tuition.You do not have to purchase a parking pass or even a vehicle to be able to live off campus. Another important thing to consider is the safety of where you are looking to live. Look into the crime rate of that neighborhood or apartment complex. Always keep the doors locked for safety.
“I chose the apartment complex I live in based off of the security I felt when I was there,” said Allison Tucker, a junior ag communications major. “The entrance has gates that are always closed, and unless you have the code or someone that lives there to let you in, you cannot enter my apartment complex. This makes me feel safer so that I know there are not people just driving through for fun.” For more information you can visit studentlife.tamu or visit Miller in Cain Hall suite B-117.
in your pocket! JUST MENTION THIS AD & HAVE ALL YOUR MOVE-IN FEES WAIVED!
2x6 Hold for Off Campus Housing
AMENITIES: Free Fitness Classes 42’ TV in every apartment State of the Art Tanning Facility • 24-Hour Mac and PC Lab • Individual Leases • • •
SIGN YOUR LEASE ONLINE TODAY at
THEDISTRICTONLUTHER.COM or come visit us
601 LUTHER STREET WEST, COLLEGE STATION, TX 77840 | 866.557.0070
Page 28 Housing Guide
Quarters the
on Luther Street
‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡
Gated Entry Pet Friendly On-Site Management Washer/Dryer In Unit Individual Leasing Extended Cable, Internet & Water Included
1270 Harvey Mitchell Parkway S | College Station, Texas 77840 979.693.8506 | www.KnightsgateAggies.com
‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡ ‡
Fast, easy meals:
All Granite Counter Tops On Texas A&M Bus Route Pet Friendly Walk-In Closets Washer/Dryer In Unit Individual Leasing Extended Cable, Internet & Water Included
701 Luther Street College Station, Texas 77840 979.693.8506 www.TheQuartersOnLutherStreet.com
DW ‡ Swimming Pool ‡ Fitness Center ‡ Free Water, Lawn Care, Cable & Internet ‡ Pet Friendly
‡ Close To Texas A&M University
‡ 3RRO
‡ Washer/Dryer In Every Unit
‡ )UHH &DEOH :DWHU ,QWHUQHW
‡ Privacy Fenced Backyards
‡ /DXQGU\ )DFLOWLHV
‡ +RXU (PHUJHQF\ 0DLQWHQDQFH ‡ 2Q $ 0 6KXWWOH 5RXWH
2401 Welsh Avenue | College Station, Texas 77845 979.693.9957 | www.BrazosPointApartments.com
15109 B Silver Springs | College Station,Texas 77845 979.690.2794 | www.TheVillageatCreekMeadows.com
‡ :LWKLQ 0LOHV 2I 7H[DV $ 0 ‡ 6ZLPPLQJ 3RRO ‡ /DXQGU\ )DFLOLWLHV ‡ 2Q $ 0 6KXWWOH 5RXWH ‡ )UHH &DEOH :DWHU ,QWHUQHW ‡ :DVKHU 'U\HU &RQQHFWLRQV ‡ 3LFQLF $UHD
1806 B Yellowhouse Circle r e | College Station, Te T Texas a 77840 as Phone 979.696.9492 | www.HuntersPointApts.com A
CONVENIENT AfFORDABLE ORD RD DA D DAB AB 4XLHW z &RQYHQLHQW z 5HVSRQVLYH z :LWKLQ 0LOH 2I 7H[DV $ 0
z 2Q $ 0 6KXWWOH 5RXWH
z 6ZLPPLQJ 3RRO
z )UHH &DEOH :DWHU ,QWHUQHW
z &ORVH 7R 6KRSSLQJ %DQNV
z :DVKHU 'U\HU &RQQHFWLRQV
3DUNV
$QGHUVRQ 6WUHHW _ &ROOHJH 6WDWLRQ 7H[DV 3KRQH _ ZZZ DQGHUVRQSODFHEFV FRP
yk
2>=E4=84=C;Hk;>20C43kF8C78=kF0;:8=6k38BC0=24kC>kC4G0Bk0M<kD=8E4AB8CHk0=3k=>AC760C4
yk
B?028>DBkCF>k0=3k5>DAk143A>><k0?0AC<4=CBÂłk8340;k5>AkBCD34=CB
yk
?083kF0C4A
yk
;>20C43k8=kC74k?>?D;0Ak=>AC760C4k4=C4AC08=<4=Ck38BCA82C
yk
A4B?>=B8E4k>=q20;;k?A>?4ACHk<0=064<4=Ck0=3k<08=C4=0=24kB4AE824B
øóùkBC0B=4HkBCA44CkYk2>;;464kBC0C8>=³kC4G0Bk øù ?7>=4k ´ á´ ù kYk50Gk ´ á´ Üáó 2800 South Texas Avenue, Suite 401 Bryan, Texas | 77802 Phone: 979.268.2000 | Fax: 979.846.7020 www.OldhamGoodwin.com
The Ramen alternative story by cat monaco Fast, easy meals for college students on a tight schedule and small budget Between classes, going to the recreation center, and a 5:30 a.m. weather broadcast every Monday, junior meteorology major Camille Manning has found a way to fit fast and easy meals into her busy schedule. Easy meals, both on and off campus, are a necessity for students like Manning who do not have time during the week to make home-cooked meals or sit down at a restaurant. “I feel like I’m always on campus this semester so I’ve had to learn to make easy meals to bring to school,� Manning said. “I think the key is making it the night before and in bulk so you can just grab it when you are running late in the morning.� Asian Salad, a recipe from her mother, is Manning’s favorite meal to make. It is a simple recipe of broccoli slaw, oriental ramen noodles, rice, vinegar, almonds, sunflower seeds, and sugar mixed together making enough salad for about a week of lunches. “Not only is Asian Salad so easy to make, it’s actually pretty cheap when I’m on a budget,� Manning said. “I usually just try to pack that with some strawberries to balance out the meal.� Finding easy meals on campus is also an option among students who live in dorms or are on campus during meals. Senior education major Stephanie Shargal’s favorite thing to eat is Chinese food in the Memorial Student Center. “I pretty much live in the MSC because I’m the chair of Town Hall and that makes eating chinese such an easy choice,� Shargal said. “I just make sure to go at non-rush hours or else you can get stuck in line forever.� Shargal typically orders lo mien and orange chicken because it is one of the cheaper options in the MSC and quick to eat in-between work and meetings. Some students choose a more traditional option when choosing what to eat for lunch including senior animal science major Megan May who packs quick lunches for her days spent on West Campus or working as a Texas A&M bus driver. See Ramen alternative on page 29
thebattalion
Page 29 Housing Guide
What to know before signing a lease story by macy mccasland You could just be living somewhere six months or even a year, but when it comes to signing a lease, there are certain things that everyone needs to know before putting pen to paper to sign your name. Living off campus is a big deal and can affect a lot of aspects in your life if you don’t do it right or sign yourself into something before considering a number of factors. “Be sure and look around. There are a lot of options out there and when it comes down to it you want to live somewhere that fits all of your needs,” said Bethany Holland, sophomore international studies major. One of the first things people need to know is once you sign, you’re in it for good…or at least until the lease is up. When you put your name to the lease, you need to understand the consequences attached. Even though you’re not buying the place, a lease is a legal commitment that you are held to keep; if you don’t, you will be out of pocket a good chunk of money. Another important factor to know is there is a chance you could be responsible for damage you did not do. When you first move in, be sure to put the damages you find in your place on the “preexisting” damage section of your lease. If you do not list everything, you will be liable for all damages at the end of your term. People who have had personal experience in these areas are the ones you can
learn from. Ellie Gonzales, a December graduate with a degree in anthropology, learned how to deal with these obstacles the hard way. “Make sure you do a run through before you move in because that’s where I really got burned. There were damages in my room that I moved into that should have been fixed ahead of time,” Gonzales said. Financial consequences can be costly when it comes to breaking your lease. Since it is a legal document, companies can charge you however much they feel fit to cover the costs. It is the company or owner’s preference as to whether they will let you break the lease. In the end, check out all your sources before you agree to stay somewhere and be aware of the time you plan on living there. “When you’re going into a lease, just remember to weigh all of your factors. The apartment complexes don’t enjoy charging you for something if you can prevent it,” said Lindsay Elias, a manager at a local apartment complex. Other factors that have an influence when it comes to signing a lease include: pet policies, customizing to your personality, fees involved, electricity, appliance upgrades, and the inclusion of cable. Your lease may automatically renew depending on what the lease states. Know your responsibilities if for some reason you have to break your lease.
Ramen alternative
FAIRWAYS apartment homes
Re Ne no wl va y te d
ASK ABOUT OUR AMAZING
LEASE SPECIALS
979-822-5450 3200 Finfeather Road Bryan, TX 77801
Come Be a Part of Our Community
Don’t drag it home to Mom!
First Month’s Rent
FREE!
Continued from page 28
“I just pack a sandwich and a granola bar because it’s pretty much the easiest thing to do when you have to be on campus all day,” May said. “Sometimes I even just eat cereal.” When deciding what to eat when off campus, students have many options around College Station. Efficiency is still the number one factor for Shargal when she’s choosing a location. “I’m a huge fan of local places that have chicken fingers,” Shargal said. “It’s obviously delicious and it’s quick so I can just pick it up on my way home.You can also never go wrong with fast food, it might not be
healthy but it sure is an easy meal.” Whether students choose to eat on or off campus, there are fast and easy meals available on campus or from their own kitchen. All of the favorites from the students interviewed are suitable to make whether you live in a dorm, apartment or home. “I think what most students struggle with is finding things to make with limited kitchens,” Manning said. “That’s why I love making salads. It’s something I’ve been able to do when I lived in an apartment with no kitchen as a freshman and still can now that I live in a house.”
3400 Longmire Dr C.S., TX 77845
4074 State Hwy 6 S C.S., TX 77845
3007 Longmire Dr C.S., TX 77845
625 S Graham Rd C.S., TX 77845
Please mention promo code CA004 to redeem this offer.
2306 S College Ave Bryan, TX 77801 1109 Baker Ave Bryan, TX 77803
877-640-8128 www.securcare.com
Looking for
VaRietY? BCR has the MOST rental properties in BCS.
DUPLEXES, 4-PLEXES, TOWNHOUSES, CONDOS & HOMES!!
(979)694-2747 www.BCRBS.com 700 University Dr. E., Suite 108 College Station, Texas 77840
PARENTS WEEKEND ONLY BRING THIS IN FOR WAIVED FEES AND A $100 GIFT CARD! REAL LIVING, REAL LEARNING.
The amenities you want...
s &ULLY &URNISHED s 7IRELESS )NTERNET s 7OOD &LOORS s 3PACIOUS #LOSETS s ,OFTED &ULL 3IZE "ED s &ULL 3IZE 7ASHER $RYER s &OOT #EILINGS s 3TAND 5P 4ANNING "ED s "ASKETBALL #OURT
s (R &ITNESS #ARDIO #ENTER s v &LAT 3CREEN 46 IN ,IVING !REAS s #AFÏ #YBER ,OUNGE s -AC 0# #OMPUTER ,AB WITH 5NLIMITED 0RINTING s 2ESERVED #OVERED 0ARKING s "EACH 3AND 6OLLEYBALL #OURT TEXT XT ‘CP’ TO 47464 FOR MORE INFO XT s 'ATED #OMMUNITY s /N "US 2OUTE TO 4EXAS ! -
the value you Love!
979 680 8475
www.crossingplaceliving.com 400 SOUTHWEST PARKWAY, COLLEGE STATION TX 77840
Parent’s Weekend Special: Sign annual lease - Get a HUGE Discount + $100 HEB Gift
950 COLGATE (979) 764-8999
3645 WELLBORN RD (979) 691-6400
CollegeStationStudentApartments.com x 1, 2, & 4 bedroom floor plans x On A&M shuttle route
x Free internet & cable w/ HBO x Fitness center & sport courts
x Large pool w/ area to grill x Aggie owned and operated