For some Penn students, finding a lease at the right price isn’t the only barrier to moving off campus after freshman year. Parents’ concerns about off-campus housing security can also stand in the way.
When I informed my parents last year that I was considering moving into an apartment at 40th and Pine streets with three friends, they were among those who voiced worries over security. Though they spoke with me at length about the potential risks that come with living in West Philadelphia, we ultimately agreed that moving into the apartment was the best way for me to gain a sense of responsibility and independence.
Safety is a perfectly understandable concern for many parents. However, they will be comforted to know that, according to a 2011 “State of the City” report compiled by the Philadelphia Research Initiative, violent crime in Philadelphia — which includes homicide, rape, aggravated assault and robbery — is at its lowest level since 1989.
Engineering sophomore Torrie Meliska, who lives on 40th and Pine streets this year, said her parents’ biggest concern before she moved off campus was her walking home at night.
“The Penn security officers on the corner of 40th and Pine make me feel a lot safer,” she said. “When I told my parents that, they were a lot more chill about my living situation.”
Parents may also support the idea of living in an off-campus Greek house instead of an apartment building that houses residents who may not be affiliated with Penn. Greek housing, when you think about it, is really just a same-sex dorm with a kitchen.
Engineering sophomore Courtney Reamer’s parents encouraged her to live in her sorority house. “They thought it would be a good way for me to bond with the other girls,” she said, adding that many parents see the Greek housing system as a way to give their children independence while still keeping them in a pseudo-Penn-controlled environment.
Moving off campus, I’ve found, is a great way to become more independent and learn how to handle real-world responsibilities. Parents may be hesitant to allow their children this freedom at first, but they know that once we graduate from Penn, the whole world is off campus.
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.