Hey all! I am an incoming graduate student at UMD College Park. I'm in the market for roommates but I'm also looking for studios in NW DC (Petworth, Columbia Heights, Park View, U St Corridor, etc.)
I am wondering if I am crazy for looking at apartments in DC rather than in College Park/Silver Springs/Takoma. Those Maryland areas close to campus seem quite suburban and boring (after spending 22 years in the suburbs I am ready for some excitement.!) I'm looking to live in an area with more energy, so I'm hoping to secure a room near Columbia Heights... It's only 5 metro stops away from campus! I know there is also another bus from the metro to campus, but I think I can manage an under 20 minute commute. Also I should add, I won't have a car, so I need to be in walking distance to grocery stores, restaurants, things to do, etc... Seems like the Silver Springs/Takoma areas are very residential and not great for people w/o cars.
I am just wondering if this is unusual or if other students also opt to live in DC rather than live close to campus. Everyone who posts seems to exclusively live in CP or the surrounding suburbs, so I was hoping to hear opinions about living in NW DC and commuting to campus. Thanks for the advice everyone.