The Cavalier Daily
Serving the University Community Since 1890

Affordable housing for all

None of the recent articles about the University´s role in the City of Charlottesville´s affordable housing issues mentions the fact that the University provides almost no on-Grounds housing for graduate and professional (Law, Darden, Medicine) students who, together, make up about 30 percent of the University’s student population. The vast majority of it — University Gardens and Copeley Hill, with just over 300 apartments in total — is for students “with families” (i.e. to be eligible, you must be married and/or have children). The only options available to single, childless graduate students are the Range, suite-style rooms at Dillard (for Medical students only), and two buildings with double-occupancy rooms at Copeley (priority is given to Law and Darden students). Considering that over 6,000 graduate students were enrolled at the University last fall, the available on-Grounds housing is scarce. For single, childless graduate students who want to live somewhere with basic amenities such as a bathroom, a kitchen and their own bedroom, the Universty offers no options. Student Family Housing offers very reasonable rent, with all utilities included, and I feel it is the University´s duty to provide affordable housing options for all graduate students, not just those who are married with children.
Julianna Gallardo
GSAS

Local Savings

Puzzles
Hoos Spelling

Latest Podcast

The University’s Orientation and Transition programs are vital to supporting first year and transfer students throughout their entire transition to college. But much of their work goes into planning summer orientation sessions. Funlola Fagbohun, associate director of the first year experience, describes her experience working with OTP and how she strives to create a welcoming environment for first-years during orientation and beyond. Along with her role as associate director, summer Orientation leaders and OTP staff work continually to provide a safe and memorable experience for incoming students.