Adjusting to life in Durham can feel like a big task, especially when you’re also starting a new program. As someone who already knew the area from my time as a Duke undergrad (proud double Dukie!), I had a bit of a head start. I remember how overwhelming it can be to figure out where to live, how to furnish a space on a budget, and how to make an apartment feel like home. I’m writing this blog in hopes of making the transition a bit easier for incoming students by sharing practical tips, personal experiences, and things I wish I had known earlier. 

1. Where did you live, and what did you like about it?

While in the MMS program, I was a resident advisor at Swift Apartments, one of Duke’s graduate student dorms. Even though I was technically on campus, I still know a little ‘something, something’ about living off campus. 

Living Near Ninth Street

As a senior at Duke, I lived in Berkshire Ninth Street (Berk 9, for short). When picking Berk 9 I felt that it fit all of my needs for location and amenities, including a pool and gym. Its proximity to the grocery store and Ninth Street was a big plus, as it was easy to grab a quick bite or a last-minute ingredient if needed.

However, the closest bus stop is about a 10-minute walk away, near The Blue Light Living apartments. In the spring and fall, this is a breeze of a walk. But it’s quite the trek in the winter or when it’s raining in the summer, especially if you don’t have the right gear. 

Other options in that area include Erwin Mills, Station Nine, and Berkshire Main  Street. All have similar proximity to restaurants and shops. Like Berk 9, Station Nine and Berkshire Main Street have a pool and gym in the complex.

Living Off South LaSalle Street

The Belmont Apartments and The Heights on LaSalle are two great housing options. A lot of my classmates lived in this area. The highlight is that there is a bus stop right in front of these complexes (they are right across from each other), and the route has a stop right in front of Fuqua. These apartments are also a quick walk from many fast dining restaurants.

The Flats Exchange on Erwin Apartments and Lofts at Lakeview Apartments are also nearby. These communities are in a great location, but they are a bit farther from the bus stop.

Many Options Overall

Finding the right place to live is all about finding what works best for you and has the amenities that you are looking for. If you shop around for apartments or house rentals, you’re bound to find a place that suits your needs. You can also utilize sites like Duke’s Facebook page for housing, sublets and roommates, or connect with incoming MMS students. 

2. Was it hard to furnish your place on a budget?

When looking for options to furnish an apartment, there are many different places that you can go to. Personally, my go-to options are Costco, Walmart, and Amazon. 

• Costco is a great place to find cheap yet comfy mattresses.
• On Amazon, I bought a beanbag and my bedframe.
• Walmart is a great place to buy furniture like desks, dressers, chairs, and bedside tables. I was able to get a high-quality desk from Walmart that has lasted three years and cost $40.

Other options that I have either used personally or have heard about from friends are Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Wayfair, and Ikea. The Habitat ReStore is also a good option. There are several locations in Durham and the greater Triangle area. Duke List is an online marketplace where anyone with a Duke NetID can post or view listings. These places are great to find gems in the dust, but sometimes it takes a little bit to find exactly what you are looking for at the right price.

A helpful tip is to make a list of the must-haves on day one (like a bed), a list of needs (clothing storage, a desk), and a list of wants (coffee table). This will help you to organize what you must have right when you get to your new apartment, and what can wait with a timeline depending on urgency.

3. What’s one item that made your apartment feel like home?

One item that made my apartment feel like home is my Kitchen Aid mixer. It was a gift from my family that reminds me of them every time I cook, and cooking is something that brings me peace. When packing for your move, I suggest bringing something that, when you see it, allows you to decompress and relax. I find that having little things on the wall and a nice scent like a candle or wall plug-in also helps make the space more homey and comforting.

4. What would you do differently if you had to move again?

If I were to do anything differently, I would plan for my move a bit better by getting the layout of my new apartment. This would help me prepare for entering the space and making sure that I have everything I need. It’s much easier to buy a bed and arrange for it to arrive on move-in day when you know how big your room is!

I would look to thrift shops to find hidden gems that can add a unique aspect to your apartment, like a unique light or wall decor. As I mentioned, I bought a lot of items at Costco, Walmart, and Amazon. While this helped me get everything I needed, I wish I had prioritized finding one-of-a-kind pieces at thrift stores. 

I would also add comforting pieces to my apartment more quickly, especially things like candles or other scents. Sometimes the ‘new apartment smell’ can take over and make it not feel as relaxing as it could be.

No matter where you live, it’s important to make your living space feel like your own. The MMS program is short but intense, and I hope this guide helps you create a comfortable and relaxing space that you are excited to come home to after a long day of learning.