What to do when the dorms shut down

Dorm closures present a dilemma for people unable to go home. Avoid the hassle of being homeless during breaks.

Change dorms
IU Residential Programs and Services allows alternate dorm arrangements for students needing to stay on campus during breaks.
For the upcoming spring break, dorms will close at 10 a.m. March 9 and reopen at 8 a.m. March 17. For summer break, dorms close at 10 a.m. May 4. Go to rps.indiana.edu for more information and for dining hall closures.

Travel
The IU Office of Overseas Study offers alternative living plans. In the past, students have traveled to more than 50 countries. Many student-run organizations offer the opportunity to travel both within the United States and around the world.

Sublease
Hospitality exchange websites like couchsurfing.org can also help students locate a place to stay.
Work at a place that provides housing.
Summer camps and retreat locations are always looking for workers. You can often get free housing while making some extra cash and adding to your résumé.

House-sit
Volunteer to get the mail, water the plants, feed the pets or make the house look lived in. Your friends are likely to be on vacation, and many professors leave for research or are otherwise out of their homes when campus is on break.