Calgary’s University Residences Struggle to Accommodate Incoming Students
As the new academic year approaches, many students are eagerly preparing to start their university journey. However, for some students in Calgary, finding a place to live on campus has become a major challenge.
According to reports, the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University are facing a shortage of available rooms in their residences. This has left many incoming students without a guaranteed spot to live on campus.
The University of Calgary has stated that they have received a record number of applications for residence, with over 5,000 students vying for approximately 2,900 spots. Similarly, Mount Royal University has seen a significant increase in demand for on-campus housing, with a 20% increase in applications compared to last year.
The shortage of available rooms has been attributed to a variety of factors, including the growing number of students enrolling in post-secondary education and the limited capacity of existing residence buildings. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also played a role, as some students may prefer to live on campus rather than in off-campus housing.
In response to the high demand, both universities have implemented waitlists for students who were unable to secure a spot in residence. However, this has left many students feeling uncertain and anxious about their living arrangements for the upcoming school year.
Some students have expressed frustration with the situation, stating that they were counting on living on campus and now have to scramble to find alternative housing options. Others have raised concerns about the affordability of off-campus housing and the added stress it may bring to their academic experience.
In light of these challenges, both universities are working to find solutions to accommodate as many students as possible. This includes exploring options for additional residence buildings and providing resources for students to find off-campus housing.
As the demand for on-campus housing continues to rise, it is clear that more needs to be done to ensure that all students have access to affordable and suitable living arrangements. In the meantime, students are advised to stay in touch with their respective universities for updates and to explore all available housing options.
The start of a new academic year is an exciting time for students, and it is crucial that they have a safe and comfortable place to call home during their studies. It is our hope that the universities in Calgary will continue to work towards finding solutions to this pressing issue and provide a positive and supportive experience for all students.
