Students in Bloom
As a new semester begins, students all over Pittsburgh are beginning to think about their future plans. For many students, these plans involve finding housing for the summer and the upcoming year. With all of the neighborhoods available to choose from, it can get pretty confusing. From what looking I’ve personally done over the past couple of years, I can say that Bloomfield certainly tops the list of many University of Pittsburgh students.
I have reached a point in my life where living next to a college campus is no longer worth the money. I’m graduating this spring, but I plan on living with two roommates who are still attending college. So while living close to campus is still an important element in our decision, it is no longer a major element. Of all of the neighborhoods available, I find that Bloomfield is one that works well with this dilemma. Like Shadyside and Squirrel Hill, Bloomfield is easily walked to and has a bus that stops right on campus. This gives my roommates and me the benefit of being close enough for them to get to school easily and getting away from the college atmosphere.
Another benefit that Bloomfield gives college students is the relaxed atmosphere that the community has. Unlike Oakland, which is always rather hectic, Bloomfield gives college students a relaxing and unique experience. With over 40 restaurants and bars to choose from, students can easily find whatever food they’re craving. And going out to the bars is never as crowded and uncomfortable as the bars in Oakland and Southside can get. Bloomfield is also one of the leading neighborhoods for new music: bars like Howlers, Brillobox and Bloomfield Bridge Tavern are always bringing local bands to Bloomfield. Bloomfield’s ideal location also gives students easy access to the other neighborhoods.
Bloomfield offers many great opportunities to the students who move in there. I know that for us, Bloomfield is an ideal location because it gives us a more “grown-up” atmosphere that we’re looking for. And while I don’t know what’s going to happen with the upcoming semester, I do know that Bloomfield remains at the top of my list of possible locales.