Post-grad living situation is a nightmare 

Ariana Rodriguez | Staff Writer

After years of living on-campus, graduating students are limited to University Apartments or lease agreements with off campus housing which ends weeks after graduation. With the current housing market being a disaster, there needs to be more support for FIU graduates.

The demand for housing at FIU far exceeds the available supply (no surprise there) creating a competitive environment where graduates are often left scrambling to find affordable living accommodations. 

With limited options and soaring rental prices in the surrounding area, many find themselves priced out of the market or forced to settle for substandard living conditions.

As someone who is not a Miami local, the fear of housing post-grad intensifies when all off campus housing options require you to be an active student to continue leasing. 

The situation is even more devastating for international students who don’t have the privilege of staying at their parents’ house for some time and are forced out of the school once they receive their cap and gown. 

Navigating the housing landscape post-graduation is undeniably challenging for all FIU graduates, but for international students the hurdles are often more daunting.

International graduates may struggle with local rental markets and regulations since they lack the support networks domestic students may have. This can lead to challenges in determining fair prices, finding reputable landlords and understanding lease agreements which overall heightens housing insecurity.

The impact of the never-ending housing crisis extends beyond mere inconvenience; it affects the overall well-being and success of FIU graduates as they embark on their professional journeys. 

Without stable housing, graduates struggle to pursue the careers that they spent years dedicating themselves to- it’s ridiculous.

Housing is a right not a privilege. 

FIU should proactively enhance housing options for recent graduates and offer comprehensive support to ease their transition into their professional life. This includes expanding on-campus housing for graduates, initiating affordable housing programs and partnering with local providers for discounted rates. 

FIU could invest in tailored support services covering housing search, financial planning and career development. This on-hands approach will equip graduates with the resources needed for success beyond just academics- which is what the university prides itself in.

The housing crisis facing recent graduates at FIU is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and action. There needs to be more support for recent graduates since they have already endured the pressure of completing university-  housing shouldn’t have to be another worry.

DISCLAIMER:

The opinions presented on this page do not represent the views of the PantherNOW Editorial Board. These views are separate from editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers and/or members of the University community.