Appalachian State University Housing has extended an offer to dorm hall residents, providing them the opportunity to buy out double-occupancy rooms. This initiative stems from current dorm hall occupancy being below full capacity, according to Brandon Nelson, the director of University Housing. The university's decision aims to help offset costs when occupancy does not meet expectations.
The option was first communicated to dorm hall residents via email before the academic year's move-in period, and then again once the room exchange option became available. This allows students who were initially placed without a roommate, or those who might receive one later through room exchange or new spring attendees, to secure a private room for the semester.
University Housing did not offer buyouts last year because dorm occupancy reached 100%. However, this option was available in years prior to the last academic year. For the current school year, buyouts have also been offered for the spring semester. Typically, these offers are not made until the semester has begun, but Nelson stated that this year's lower occupancy allowed the university to anticipate the availability of space earlier.
The cost for a buyout varies depending on the style of the room. Students in traditional-style dorms can secure a buyout for an additional $750 per semester. For suite, apartment, and hotel-style rooms, the cost for a buyout is an additional $1,000, as confirmed by Nelson.
Nelson clarified that these buyouts are distinct from accommodations provided to some students through App State's disability resources. Such accommodations typically involve single rooms and are granted without additional cost beyond that of a typical suite-style room. He noted that accommodations are not designed to incur extra charges for students.
Brandon Collie, a freshman graphic design major, found himself in a double-occupancy room alone. He shared that his original roommate, freshman building sciences major Joshua Brown, took the buyout option. Collie was later assigned a new roommate, who visited the room once but did not stay. Collie is currently weighing whether to take the buyout himself if another roommate is assigned, expressing enjoyment of having his own room and considering the buyout a "heavy possibility."
Joshua Brown willingly chose the buyout before moving in. Brown mentioned appreciating the privacy the buyout afforded, stating he could do his work late into the night without disturbing anyone.
Students interested in applying for a buyout can do so through the initial offer email or directly through the university housing portal. University Housing processes buyouts on a first-come, first-served basis.
