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Knowledge Network

Report or Article

The Student Factor

by Jeff Rakes and Dey W. Watts, Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs

Download: The Student Factor
(PDF, 567 Kb, 3 pages)

This article examines the evolution of campus neighborhoods, some of the perceptions surrounding off-campus housing and the tensions that can arise between established residents and transient students. ”Studentification” describes a process whereby a transient population of young people overwhelms an established neighborhood. Studentification results in a seasonally revolving cohort of 18-24year olds who temporarily inhabit a neighborhood. The process of “studentification” differs considerably from one neighborhood to the next. This articles frames some general trends, and presents several models for making “college towns” healthy and vibrant communities for all its residents.