By Alyssa Rideout
You just got the email. An internship offer. In a big city. All that you’ve been dreaming of for years.
And then about 5 seconds later it hits you – crap, where am I going to live? And how will I afford it?
Whether you’re moving to New York, D.C., Chicago, or somewhere else just as exciting, you probably found yourself in this position. It is beyond exciting… but overwhelming.
So if you’re anything like me, and many other students, you probably didn’t realize how complicated summer housing in a major city can be… and how expensive. So here is a breakdown of everything I learned throughout my research to find housing in New York this summer.
Start your search early.
Housing in big cities goes fast, the sooner you establish your budget, ideal neighborhood, and potential roommates – the better. Penn State facebook groups are a great way to start! Although, as you may know, communications internship acceptances typically come out in the spring. So even if you just think you may be interning in the city, start your search.
Be realistic about your budget.
Rent in a big city is… a lot to say the least. As I mentioned, try to set a budget early. But make sure you’re keeping in mind the necessities such as utilities, transportation costs, groceries, etc. But also try to save some extra money to have fun and explore the city this summer! Using ChatGPT is a great way to create a customized budget for yourself.
Use your network (seriously.)
You probably already knew this, but using your network will be so helpful throughout your housing search. Text Alumni friends, club members, coworkers, or post online! Just let people know you’re looking to live in the city this summer, and you’re looking for roommates or housing. You’d be surprised how many of your friends know someone who is subletting.
This is honestly where I learned 80% of the information about summer housing.
Sublets will be your best friend.
Although there are companies in many cities such as EHS (educational housing services), NIKA corporate housing, Found, etc. these tend to run a little expensive and may be out of your budget.
If this is the case I highly recommend looking into subletting, which is when you temporarily live in somebody else’s apartment or room for the summer. I found it is typically much more affordable and flexible than short-term leasing.
Some great places to look for sublets are:
- Facebook groups (search “[City/Neighborhood] Summer Sublets’)
- University housing groups
- GroupMe chats (use your network!!!)
Don’t diss the dorms!
Another great option I know many students interning in the city using is dorms! You would be surprised how many universities in big cities offer housing for students during the summer. These options are usually cheaper, a bit more reliable, and some even offer meal plans! For example if you’re looking in New York City, living in the NYU dorms for the summer is a viable option.
Location matters.
Although it may be tempting to grab the first nice and affordable housing opting you find – you must consider your commute. A cheap apartment that is a 40 minute commute every day might get aggravating (especially in the summer heat).
Try to balance:
- Price
- Safety
- Distance to your office
- Access to subways/bus lines
Double-check everything!
Unfortunately scams do happen, especially if you’re performing your housing search entirely online and not going through an official platform (such as university or company housing).
Some quick tips to avoid scams:
- Never send money until seeing proof the place is real (ask for a video tour or a facetime if you’re subletting!)
- Look up the address and building
- Look into reviews, or ask around if you know anyone who has lived there previously
- Most importantly, trust your gut. If something feels off, or too good to be true, it probably is.
Final thoughts
The most important thing I realized during my search, is that everyone is figuring this out at the same time. It can get pretty stressful, but it will be well worth it. This summer isn’t just about your internship – it’s an opportunity to live somewhere new, meet great people, and experience city life! Housing is just the first step to getting that experience.
Good luck out there!
Happy Valley Comm 