I graduated two years ago. I did my M.A. at nova but not undergrad--the only people I knew were in the English department.
Woodlawn heights has a good price, though hard to tell how long a walk it is to the metro. Searching for apartments is somewhat daunting, since I'm unfamiliar with the area and will need something that's furnished. Are you in contact with any of the other philosophy students who live in those apartments?