If you’re in a relationship with a fellow Bobcat or Buckeye, your best bet is likely a one-bedroom apartment in Athens or Columbus. A studio likely would be too small for two people, and multiple bedrooms too big. That’s unless you’re OK with having housemates or can afford an extra bedroom to use as a guest room or office.
Most young couples, however, tend to prefer living without housemates. Who wants to continuously worry about how others will think about conspicuous shows of affection between you and your partner, or the noise of romance coming from your bedroom? A relationship can really be tested when others are included in the equation.
Be Careful With the Lease
One issue that might arise with two people sharing a one-bedroom apartment or small house is the lease. If you have two names on the lease, you and your partner, what happens if your romance hits the skids? While you may think that your match is made in heaven, the reality is that college romances often don’t last through the year. Schoolwork can place a lot of pressure on a relationship, what with differing demands on your time and energy. Plus, the partying and social obligations, especially in college towns like Athens and Columbus, can exert negative pressure on a relationship as well. You and your partner are constantly being exposed to other good-looking people of college age, and that’s a lot of temptation to negotiate. The problem is that if you have two names on the lease, if you do break up, that can create some messy legal issues. You can avoid this risk by opting to live separately while visiting often. The bonus of this option is that you’ll be less likely to annoy each other if you’re not spending 24/7 together.
In addition, you and your partner’s parents likely will feel better about you maintaining separate living quarters, which also means they’ll be more likely to help you pay for your rent and living expenses.
Finally, if you and he/she are living in separate places, you’ll have an easier time hanging out with your pals. Sometimes, that Saturday afternoon college football game can be a lot more fun if it’s with your buddies.
Consider Your Options Carefully
Whatever you and your significant other ultimately decide to do, make sure you think long and hard before making a decision. Whether you live together or apart, that decision will go a long way toward defining your time in college. It probably will be worthwhile to talk to friends who have shared a small apartment with a romantic partner. They can give you a pretty good idea of the pluses and minuses of this sort of set-up at college. Just remember that every couple is different, so someone else’s experience won’t necessarily happen to you. On the other hand, you might get some great advice.
