By Jeff Samoray, OU Web Writer

Kelly Nyland, a senior music major, won't have to deal with traffic during her commute to campus nor will she have to search for a parking space and race to class. Instead, Nyland plans to bike and rollerblade to her classes now that she lives in Oakland University's new student apartments.

Besides the obvious advantages of living close to classroom buildings, Nyland, who works as a program assistant for Campus Recreation and as an apartment community assistant, said the apartments introduce a new campus dynamic to OU.

"I think the apartments are going to definitely increase community involvement," Nyland said. "Having more students on campus will help boost participation in all environments, not just athletics. I think you'll see more students involved in things like the Center for Student Activities, University Student Congress, and other student organizations and events. I think it's all very exciting."

Other students agree and are enjoying the freedom that comes with independent living as they unpack their belongings, greet their new neighbors and prepare for the start of fall semester.

Most of the 459 apartment residents moved in the first day the apartments opened on Aug. 24. Others, such as senior business major Ericka Burns of Clinton, Ontario, unloaded their cars after arriving midweek.

"I wanted to live on campus just to be closer and to share an apartment with some of my teammates," said Burns, who plays third base for OU's softball team and who rented an apartment in Lake Orion last year after spending two years on campus in Van Wagoner and Hamlin Hall. "I'm really impressed with what the university provided and can't wait to start decorating. I think the new apartments will definitely help bring more people to campus."

The $21-million apartments comprise six Tudor-style buildings and a community center featuring a manager's office, lounge, two fireplaces, a game room and deck overlooking basketball and volleyball courts. There are 32 two-bedroom units, 96 four-bedroom units and three three-bedroom handicap-accessible units. Some of the amenities include full kitchens with appliances, furnished bedrooms and living rooms, and basic cable TV. Parking at the complex is free.

"I was a little surprised when I first walked in because I didn't think the units were going to be this big. When I actually moved my belongings in, I was surprised by the amount of space,” said Jolanda Bean, a senior sociology/anthropology major who lived in Fitzgerald House for three years before moving to the new apartments. “But the biggest thing to me is that people living here are campus residents, but you have the advantages of independent living of those who live off campus. So you really have the best of both worlds. It's an awesome transition for older students who have already lived in the residence halls for two or three years. Everyone who is moving in is definitely excited."

To celebrate the opening of the apartments, a dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony will be held Friday, Sept. 6, at 3 p.m. at the apartment community center. Tours of the apartments and refreshments also will be offered.

A limited number of apartment spaces still are available. To obtain an application form, call or visit the University Housing Office, 448 Hamlin Hall, (248) 370-3570. Depending on the rental period, rates range from $4,240 to $6,360 per student per academic year for a three- or four-bedroom unit and $4,452 to $6,678 per student per academic year for a two-bedroom unit.