Lisa H.

Covid-19 has not impacted my plans to to relocate for grad school. Even though a decision has not yet been made about how classes will resume in the fall, I want to live near campus. I figure there will be some other students around, especially grad students. Plus it was pointed out to me that one might easily be able to meet one's professors eventually, even if classes are conducted online. I'll be needing their recommendations to get a job later, and I think meeting IRL is better.

You might be able to sublet an apartment at a discounted rent rate if UM does online classes only. The big problem with a sublet though is that you'd probably have to give it up if the original tenant wanted to move back in. That would be sure to happen when/if classes resume in person. I agree with you about living near campus even if classes are online only. I think living near campus will be more like a "grad school experience". Better to be in the campus environment and meet your professors, from a distance as you said. Social distancing rules will surely fluctuate throughout the year. I've never rented an apartment sight unseen so can't answer that question, but I do agree that windows/light are helpful.