February 7, 2020 - It’s not too late to live on campus. Panola College offers three housing options for students enrolled in the spring semester. Classes began on January 13, so students who move into the residence halls now will pay a prorated amount for the room and meal plan.
Katy Chance, Residence Life Coordinator, says space is available in Sharp Hall, the campus apartments, and O’Neal Hall (the newest apartment on campus.) Depending on residence hall choice, weekly cost ranges from about $160 to $200, which includes the room and 19 meals per week in the dining hall.
“The meal ticket is $5.58 per meal. It’s hard to beat that at home,” said Don Clinton, Vice President of Student Success.
Chance said living on campus helps students become more engaged in the learning process and build a sense of community. “Studies have shown that students who live on campus tend to have higher graduation rates, achieve greater academic success, are more involved in campus life, and tend to use campus resources more frequently than those not living on campus,” she said.
Campus resources include the M.P. Baker Library, the Charles C. Matthews Foundation Student Center, computer labs, high-speed WiFi, study rooms and recreational facilities including the weight room and Fitness Center gym.
Chance encouraged commuting students to consider the cost of fuel along with wear and tear on their vehicles in addition to the time wasted on the road. “Living on campus is a safer alternative, and when students really look at the numbers, they often realize they could save money and time by living in the residence halls,” she said. “Where else can you find a rental unit that provides safety, convenience, all utilities including high-speed internet and cable, and 19 meals a week for less than $1,000 a month?”
Living on campus expands opportunities to participate in cultural and academic events sponsored by the College, according to Clinton. “Students can walk from their dorm rooms to the auditorium for fine arts performances or to the Arthur Johnson Gym for games,” he said. “Living on campus gives you an opportunity to experience the complete collegiate environment that you would get at a university. We encourage all our students to get involved on campus, whether it is in the residence halls, extracurricular programs, student activities or intramural games, as well as attend athletic and performing arts events, and get involved in clubs and organizations.”
Find out more by contacting Katy Chance at kchance@panola.edu, or 903-693-1176.
