The University's financial difficulties and the recent influx of a remarkably large first-year class have made on-campus housing a complicated, frustrating phenomenon. In order to help ameliorate housing chaos, we recommend that the University help facilitate off-campus living.The University should not only spend time and money reconfiguring campus housing to fit a maximum number of students: It should also invest in staff who can advise students about off-campus housing. Until July 2008, the Department of Community Living staff included an assistant director of residence life for off-campus housing. The University would be wise to reinstate this position, even if just for a few months between October and February. Students debating where to live would be likelier to move off campus if they knew someone could assist them throughout the process.

Because hiring additional staff is a costly decision, the University might also consider hiring students to counsel their peers about off-campus living issues. Rising seniors who have lived off-campus for at least one year could apply for these positions, and current DCL staff could supervise their work. Students might even feel more comfortable approaching other students with their concerns than they would about meeting with permanent DCL staff. An off-campus housing adviser could address many concerns students have when considering moving off campus. This staff member could help students find housing that matches their budgets in the Waltham area. The adviser could also provide guidance on paying utilities and purchasing food. Some students living off campus still want to be able to eat on campus, and the adviser could recommend a suitable meal plan.

Brandeis might also consider establishing a forum on myBrandeis for students to communicate about available houses near campus. Students who rent specific houses would be able to answer questions about the advantages of living there or the problems they have faced.

In an effort to encourage students to move off campus, the University should also better publicize the resources the DCL provides. The online "Guide to Off-Campus Housing" offers some useful tips for moving off campus, including average rental rates, advice on subletting and instructions for posting a listing on myBrandeis. As the date for room selection draws nearer, the University should let students know that these resources are available. The DCL could stuff mailboxes with hard copies of the "Guide to Off-Campus Housing" or e-mail students about upcoming workshops on off-campus living. More students might be inspired to seek off-campus housing.

As the size of Brandeis' undergraduate class continues to increase, the University should think carefully about resolving issues in campus housing. Whether by hiring extra staff or increasing advertising, the University should promote off-campus living as an attractive option and help ease the process of moving off campus.