Make Mandatory Housing Voluntary at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette

As students of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette), we believe in the importance of having the freedom to choose our living arrangements based on what best suits our individual financial and personal needs. The current policy requiring students to live in mandatory on-campus housing limits our ability to make choices that could significantly reduce our costs and improve our overall college experience. Studies have shown that students who live off-campus can save substantial amounts of money compared to those who are required to live in on-campus housing. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, students living off-campus typically save between 15-25% on housing expenses, depending on the local rental market. In Lafayette, where affordable housing options are available, students could potentially save even more by choosing to live off-campus, allowing them to allocate funds towards other essential needs or reduce their student loan burden. President Savoie, we call on you to respect the financial autonomy and diverse living preferences of the UL Lafayette student body by making on-campus housing voluntary. Empowering students to choose where they live will not only support their financial well-being but also foster a sense of independence and responsibility that is essential during the college years. We urge you to listen to the voices of UL Lafayette students and take action to support our right to choose our living arrangements.