University housing has gotten so popular among students that PNW is exploring ways to expand the Hammond campus residence halls.
In response to growing demand, the university last year squeezed 32 extra beds into the two residence halls. This year, the university is housing some students at Home2Suites, an extended stay hotel near the Hammond campus.
One university spokesperson said demand for dormitory space has risen because the university is attracting more out-of-state students and international students.
Now, administrators are weighing other alternatives.
“We are in the process of working with a consultant about all the possible future housing options for PNW,” said Scott Iverson, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Housing and Student Life.
The consultants have been trying to find out what students want.
“They did a survey regarding future housing options, and it was filled out by over 600 students over a three-week period at the beginning of the semester,” said Iverson. “They also conducted at least one focus group and met with various campus constituents who would have a vested interest in the future of the housing at PNW.”
Iverson said the university will weigh options once the report is presented.
During his annual PNW Year Ahead Presentation, Chancellor Thomas Keon said that while it is unlikely that PNW will try to build another large residence hall, PNW may consider expanding existing facilities or building smaller dormitory spaces. University construction projects must be approved by the Purdue Board of Trustees.
Dormitory construction funds have been tight, but at least one student thinks that adding more dorm space is critical.
“It is essential that they create more dorms and more room for the students,” said Luke Peters, a senior Human Resources Management major. “This year they have begun having bunk beds for individuals on campus located on the first floor [of residence halls].”
Peters said he worries residence halls – which offered private rooms – will be forced to double up to squeeze in more students.
“This isn’t a huge issue, but … I am worried they will adapt to having only shared-room spaces available in the dorms, which is not what we want,” he said.
“The value that PNW offers regarding private room space is extremely important,” he said. “Many students chose PNW because it has that home-like feel to it. This can be diminished if they are forced to start sharing their room with another person because of enrollment numbers rising.”
