Organization to pair up with Kentcribs.com

Sophomore Anthony Robinson is one of many students who have experienced an unpleasant living situation. But his experience is considered to be one of the many issues that the Commuter and Off-campus Student Organization is looking to address.

“It was like living in a nightmare 24/7,” said Robinson, a sophomore intervention specialist major. ”I lived with four other people at the University Townhomes on Summit Street last year. 100 percent of my roommates were complete stoners. They would always have their friends in the living room, playing video games and smoking pot. One of my roommates even grew a plant in his closet, running up our electric bill.”

Circumstances such as this push students to seek other living arrangements. With the collaboration of COSO with Kentcribs.com, students who are considering making a move off-campus can attend the annual COSO Housing Fair on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the 2nd floor of the Student Center.

Andrew Deckert, associate director for COSO, said there will be several housing managers from different apartments and complexes in the area showcasing their places. He said that some will have digital displays of the rooms, and it’s a good opportunity to get a side-by-side comparison in one place without the hassle of driving around town. Deckert said that students can also enjoy the many giveaways as well.

“Our intention is to bring landlords from apartments in the community to meet students who are looking for a place to live off-campus,” said Mike Dukles, Center for Student Involvement graduate assistant.

Also in attendance will be Dining Services, Parking Services and Student Legal Services, who specialize in negotiating landlord and tenant issues.

“It’s basically free legal advice,” Deckert said. “We want to make sure there is a forum where students can talk about housing issues. Our purpose is to help students and dispute resolutions.”

He said the fair is a good opportunity for students to discuss the legality of contracts and leases, commuter dining plans and parking on campus.

“I’m not sure what my plans are for next year,” Robinson said. “I’m going to have to stop by for sure.”

Students who can’t make it to the fair have the option to browse Kentcribs.com to narrow living details, which include distance from Student Center, maximum price per month, number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms and pets.

Kevin Collins, account executive for Kentcribs.com, will be attending the fair to assist those who are interested. He will be handing out free bottle openers and Kentcribs t-shirt prizes for the Student Media plinko game.

“Kentcribs is a great resource for students because they can choose the type of housing they are looking for by picking their price range and number of bedrooms,” said Collins.

He said that Kentcribs is a new and growing Web site where students and faculty can experience a more suitable house hunt while allowing more complexes to get their name out in an efficient way.

“The listing is free for all Kent housing, but additional info and pictures cost more. These can be bought weekly or monthly.”

Collins can be reached at (330) 672-3251 or [email protected]. COSO is available for students and their housing concerns at (330) 672-3768 or [email protected].

Contact on-campus

entertainment reporter Michelle Bair at [email protected].