[Single BR Apartment or 5 Roomates?]

I was also having the same dilemma with trying to figure out the 1-bedroom apartment or roommates, but I am an introvert. Realizing that I knew the 1-bedroom option would be best for me. I'm not too far from your age (24 years old) and I know noisy undergraduates can be a nuisance. If you value space and time to yourself then I would recommend the 1-bedroom, especially if you believe that'll benefit your studies. 

[San Jose, CA]

On 3/16/2016 at 6:13 PM, HopefulPHD14 said:

I live in the East bay (Hayward) but my gf lives in SJ and goes to school at SJSU.

I will give you her experience:

1. SJ is expensive no matter where you live, sorry.  Try to find a group of people to live with or a room to rent out.  SJ is pretty spread out so expect to have to commute to campus.
2. Luckily there is actually a pretty good public transportation system.  If I were you I would take advantage of this!  She uses the light rail (VTA) and it drops her off right by campus.  I think its even free for students... So if I were you I would look for something near a VTA station.
3.  The nightlife/culture isn't great anywhere in SJ but it isnt bad either.  There are things to do all over (mostly downtown and in other nearby neighborhoods....Campbell comes to mind).  But luckily you really are close enough to anything you wanna do.  SF, the beach, any sport you like, music, good (or ok) bars, hiking/outdoors, are all within an hour.  

Great! Thank you so much, this is extremely helpful!

I really don't do well with roommates so if I have to live in a studio apartment instead of a 1-bedroom to cut costs I am willing to do that.

I am transporting my car to California, but will still opt to use public transportation when traveling to SJSU to save on gas. I'm not too worried about the nightlife as I'm sure I will mostly be with my friends and family in downtown Oakland and SF. 

[San Jose, CA]

I recently was admitted into San Jose State's Master's of Biotechnology program for Fall 2016 .

 

I am currently doing research as to where to live in the Bay Area. I keep hearing conflicting things about where to move to because I am trying to make my commute as painless as possible. Driving in DC traffic for the last couple of years has definitely taken a toll on me and I am trying to avoid that headache again. 

 

The places I have been suggested by friends and family are:

 

1. San Leandro

2. Fremont

3. Union City

4. Milpitas 

 

Any other suggestions or recommendations? Please share your personal experiences or stories. I am just trying to make this transition as smooth as possible from the east coast to the west coast. Thanks!

[Moving (with family) to another coast]

On 2/7/2016 at 1:20 AM, J. R., MPPA said:

As I sit here, pushing 40, the idea of moving my family from the west coast to the east coast is rather daunting.  We're prepared to do it, but preparation does not alleviate anxiety.  Anyone else in a similar boat?  I'll miss California.. born and raised.. but I was stationed in the South for a bit.. and know what to expect climate-wise.

I definitely know what you mean to an extent as I am relocating from Maryland to California by myself. Just keep in mind though that this move is to your benefit and not your detriment. It'll be well worth it once you and your family arrive there.