As you walk into the kitchen, you’re hit with the smell of Spam and eggs frying. The countertop is awash in splattered food drippings and beer cans, and everyone is eating standing up because no one volunteered to clean the kitchen table. The fried Spam and scrambled eggs will be rolled into a breakfast burrito.

This is just a regular dinner for a group of UW students who share a house near campus. It is one of the housing options that students can choose from while at school, and each presents unique benefits and challenges. Here is a look at them.

Residence halls

The residence halls on campus are Terry, Lander, Mercer, Haggett, McCarty, McMahon and Hansee. Also included are Stevens Court and the 2104 House.

Pros:

-It can be intimidating not knowing a lot of people as you enter college, but the dorms are full of people in similar situations, which can make it easier to find friends.

-Nearby food services, which include restaurants such as Subway and Pagliacci, also eliminates the need to cook. “When you’re first becoming familiar with the college experience, the last thing you want to worry about is picking up groceries,” said Matt Heintz, who formerly lived in Terry Hall.

-There is always a place to go for quiet study time, whether it is in your own room or study areas inside of the residence hall.

-It can be safer traveling around the residence halls than walking through the U-District.

Cons:

-Having a roommate can be a major adjustment for most college students, especially if you are meeting for the first time.

-There are more rules when living in the residence halls.

-Public bathrooms can be a hassle since you have to carry your stuff in and out every time.

-If you come back from class or work after the food services close, you may find yourself having to piece together a make-shift meal from the convenience store.

-There is not a lot of common space available, and the space that is there can be in high demand.

Houses and apartments

Students can find houses and apartments close to campus and far away, from the Ave to the U-Village area to surrounding neighborhoods.

Pros:

-Living in a house or apartment will have its advantages. There can be more privacy than in the residence halls, and you will probably know who your roommates are.

-You will be on your own for food, putting your cooking skills to the test.

-There are fewer rules, other than ones enforced by landlords, than other housing options.

-Apartment rates will have some utilities included, and there is usually an apartment manager to assist you with any problems.

Cons:

-Finding a place to live can be difficult in the U-District. There is a lot of competition from students.

-There is a higher level of responsibility. Doing chores can be a hassle, and chore lists only seem to increase tension between roommates.

-Other apartments in the building could be loud. Whether the apartment next door likes to host parties until 4 a.m. or the people above you stomp around all day, you will have to deal with neighbors.

Fraternities and sororities

The campus has 31 fraternities and 16 sororities, which offer many options for students wanting to join the Greek community.

Pros:

-It is a good environment for social networking. People in your house and its alumni can provide opportunities while you are in school, as well as later in life.

-Since the Greek community is large, you can find a group you are comfortable with. “You’re immediately greeted with a group of guys who you spend time with, and some eventually become your best friends,” said Kyle Thomas, a fraternity member.

-It can be helpful taking classes with people in your house.

-There are many social events organized by fraternities and sororities.

-Sororities have maids who clean for them and chefs who provide meals.

-Both fraternities and sororities emphasize philanthropy, and many events happen throughout the year that benefit charities.

Cons:

-Dealing with the fraternity and sorority stereotypes can pose a challenge.

-Fraternities are left to clean their own houses, and sometimes things can get messy.

-With so many people living in one house who have different schedules, noise can become an issue.

-Privacy and personal space can be limited, and things are often misplaced and lost.

-Freshmen usually sleep on a sleeping porch, and several people sometimes sleep in the same room.

In summary, when considering a housing option, it is important to choose what will work best for you. If you keep that in mind, you can come away with a positive experience no matter which you choose, even if you have to eat a Spam and egg breakfast burrito or two.

Reach contributing writer Adam Eucker at specials@dailyuw,com.