At the University of Kentucky, there have been new developments in student housing for the upcoming school year. The impact of the new changes to student housing is affecting returning upperclassmen who want to apply to live in the dorms the next school year. Returning students are advised to select Tri-it rooms, while incoming students select a two-bedroom suite. 

   Recently this year, the university decided to create Tri-it rooms, which is taking out the full twin XL bed and replacing it with a twin-size bunk bed. This decision will apply to all dormitories except for Boyd Hall and the University Flats upperclassmen dorms. With this development, student housing rates could increase significantly.

  The dorm rooms were created for one person and adding another person could limit the amount of space provided, such as the closet space, dresser, desk, and personal belongings for the year. The university is known for its beautiful dormitory rooms where each student has their own personal room that includes two dressers, a large closet, a desk, and a Tempurpedic bed, which was granted to all students on campus. It provided an opportunity for students to grow independently as they continue their education. These amenities are much appreciated by students. Those benefits don’t apply to returning students, but to incoming freshmen only. According to a student, “the Tri-it rooms would cause more harm than good.”

   Overall, students love the University of Kentucky, but due to this decision made by the university and the rates of the housing, sadly it’s encouraging returning students to live off campus. Students should be encouraged to live on campus because of the results that can improve students' academic experience. Students know that the University of Kentucky wants their students to be successful, but this is one of those situations that the college is interfering with.

Issues to consider…

- “It would be difficult for students to decide who gets to use the desk each night to do homework/study”

- Health concerns: “If someone gets sick the other person probably will as well.” Ex: Covid

- Personal space

- Interfering with studying

- Closet space

- Storage for the whole academic year

Credit: Gathered feedback from UK students.

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