Living off-campus means joining the Syracuse community! As part of the community and out of respect to your neighbors, it is important that you recognize some basic and easy responsibilities as a neighbor. Here are a few ways you can create a sense of community and add a smile to your neighbors face!
Wear your mask outside!
It is important to wear your mask at all times, even outside! Wearing your mask not only keeps yourself healthy, but also your neighbors! Your mask should cover both your mouth and nose for its proper and effective use.
Be mindful of others.
Whether you live in an apartment or an off-campus house, noise travels a lot further than you think. Be especially mindful of shared walls and neighbors above or below you. This means, playing music or televisions too loud, stomping on floors and yelling.
Keep your sidewalks clear.
Especially if you live in a house, make sure to shovel after a snow fall. This is not only important for the safety of you and your roommates, but also delivery or mail services and any people passing by. Don’t forget to shovel around fire hydrants too! First responders need them clear.
In addition to this, you do not want to make your yard an eyesore for your neighbors. Make sure you know when trash day is to make sure your trash bins do not overflow. This is not only for your neighbors, but in order to comply with the city of Syracuse, too.
Park in the correct spots.
Make sure to park on the correct side of the streets in order for snow plows to come through. If your apartment complex or house has assigned parking spots make sure you abide these assignments as well. Ceasing to obey parking rules could result in your vehicle being towed or booted and unhappy neighbors. In addition to this, make sure you and your guests obey the rules of the road and make sure you park 15 feet from of any fire hydrants on your street.
Be responsible with your pets.
If you are a pet owner, be courteous of picking up after them at all times. Not only keeping your neighbor’s lawn clean but your own. In addition, be mindful of keeping your pet’s volume to a minimal.
Stay in touch with your neighbors.
Exchanging phone numbers is a great way to maintain a healthy relationship with your neighbors. If a conflict arises it is much easier to send your neighbor a quick text or give them a call to reside these problems before they turn into a larger issue.
Let’s all be courteous neighbors to each other! If you have any issues while living off campus, the off-campus living team in the Office of Student Living is always available to help.
Written by Haley Mykytka ’22, College of Visual and Performing Arts