Hey there! As you gear up for the fall semester, let's talk about your housing plans. You've got a bunch of on-campus housing options to consider. The traditional residence halls offer that classic college experience with shared rooms and cool communal spaces for hanging out and hitting the books. Plus, you'll have access to common areas, laundry facilities and 24-hour security.

If you haven't applied for on-campus housing yet, no worries! You can do that through myGate. There's a $150 housing deposit, but once that's done, you can pick your building preferences and even get help finding roommates. Assignments are done on a first-come, first-served basis, and you'll get your assignment emails throughout the summer.

During the summer, it's a good idea to chat and plan with your roommate, check out your room layouts and start thinking about storage, like bed size, furniture and bathroom supplies. You can review what to bring and what not to bring here.

Move-in weekend is from Friday, August 16th to Monday, August 19th. You'll get an email from the Housing Office to schedule your move-in time through the housing portal on myGate. When you arrive at your hall, you'll go through the check-in process. Feel free to bring guests to help out, but keep it limited. We'll have a few move-in carts, but it's a good idea to bring hand trucks and carts to help out. Early move-ins are only for groups who got permission from the Housing Office.

Each hall will have spots for unloading your stuff. Once you're done, move your vehicle away to make room for others. You can park at the football stadium; we’ll have shuttle services back to the halls available.

After you settle in, you'll complete a roommate/suitemate agreement with your Resident Advisor. You'll also go through an online room inspection, attend a first-floor meeting and have a chance to join your building’s opening cookout.

The Murray State University Housing Office is super easy to find, located at 206 Stewart Stadium, on the lower level of the football stadium, next to Athletics. For the remainder of July, we're open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. Beginning in August and throughout the academic year, we're open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can reach us via email at msu.housing@murraystate.edu, or by phone at 270-809-2310 and 270-809-3811. If you need a toll-free number, it's 1-877-551-7774.

If you're also considering housing options near Murray State University, let's explore the benefits of off-campus living, how to find a great place and tips for a smooth transition.

Living off-campus offers so many perks, like the chance to be independent and build essential life skills. You'll get to create your own routine, manage your finances and live responsibly.

When you start looking for off-campus housing, there are a few things to keep in mind. Location is key, so aim for a place that’s convenient and not too far from campus. Consider things like public transportation options, nearby amenities like grocery stores and restaurants and how safe the neighborhood is.

Making the move to off-campus living can be a mix of excitement and challenges. To make it as smooth as possible, get ready. Set a budget to figure out what you can afford for rent, utilities and other costs. Make a checklist of must-have items for your new place and start packing early to avoid any last-minute stress. Oh, and don't forget to talk to your roommates or future housemates about expectations and responsibilities. Figuring out your roles in the beginning will help you avoid conflict down the road.