Skipping The Dorms: Choosing an Apartment as a Freshman at UMD [Kelsi]

In this episode of The Best Four Podcast, Laura sits down with Kelsi, a sophomore hearing and speech science major at the University of Maryland, to talk through her decision to skip dorm life and move straight into an off-campus apartment as a freshman. As the oldest of four who shared a room for nearly a decade, Kelsi knew early on that traditional dorm living with communal bathrooms and shared bedrooms was not the right fit for her. Kelsi shares how she researched housing before even committing to UMD, what she learned from friends and social media, and how she landed at The View with roommates who were already upperclassmen. She opens up about signing a lease early, choosing housing based on budget and location, and adjusting to the independence of apartment living. She also reflects on the pros and cons of apartments versus dorms, making friends without dorm life, and how living off campus helped her grow up faster than she expected. In this episode, we cover: Why Kelsi knew dorm life wasn’t for her from the start How she researched off-campus apartments before freshman year Finding roommates who were already UMD upperclassmen Why she chose The View over other popular student apartments The independence (and challenges) of apartment living as a freshman How apartment life impacted her social life and transition to college Lessons learned about leases, renewals, and planning ahead Her advice for incoming freshmen navigating housing decisions at UMD Explore more episodes and continue the conversation on our website: https://thebestfourpod.com This episode is brought to you by Rambler College Park. Rambler College Park (https://ramblercollegepark.com/) is a new student apartment opening near the University of Maryland in Fall 2027. With floorplan options that range from studios to five-bedrooms, there is a layout perfect for every lifestyle. Designed with Maryland students in mind, you’ll find curated interiors and next-level amenities that make everyday living feel effortless, including courtyards and a heated outdoor spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center and yoga studio, a dedicated study lounge, and an on-site coffee shop, Daydreamer Cafe. This episode is brought to you by Daydreamer. Daydreamer Cafe (https://www.daydreamer.coffee/) is every college student's favorite coffee shop. Daydreamer offers amazing handcrafted coffee, espresso, and my personal favorite, matcha, in a beautifully designed space. Daydreamer will open on the ground floor of Rambler College Park in Fall 2027. But even sooner, you can catch a Daydreamer pop-up inside the Rambler leasing office starting Fall 2026. Be sure to follow @RamblerCollegePark on Instagram for sneak peeks and updates. This episode is brought to you by Landmark. Landmark College Park (http://landmarkcollegepark.com) is a premier student apartment located just steps from the University of Maryland. With floorplans ranging from studios to four-bedroom layouts, Landmark offers spaces designed for every kind of Maryland student. And something new is coming soon, ready for August 2026 Move-In. Get ready for a fully renovated lobby, upgraded fitness center, refreshed study spaces, and more—all designed to elevate your everyday routine. With Dunkin’ on the first floor, your daily dose of caffeine is right downstairs. Plus, with the College Park Metro Station, local restaurants, and campus hotspots just steps away, everything you need is always within reach. Use the code BESTFOUR at landmarkcollegepark.com to waive your application fee when you sign a lease (a $50 value).