UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Students getting ready to move off campus and sign their first lease are encouraged to check out the online Tenants Rights’ Module. Moving off campus can be an exciting next step in a student’s development. It is important that students understand their rights and responsibilities before they take that step.
“This module was developed collaboratively by a group of student and parent leaders, landlords and property managers, government officials, and University offices to ensure that it provides students with the most important information they need to know before they sign,” said Kelly Mroz, director of Student Legal Services.
The module is available in two formats. The student version, which requires students to log in with their Penn State credentials, includes quiz questions to check learning and generates a certificate upon successful completion. An alternate format also is available to provide easy access for parents or family members. The visitor version requires no login information and does not generate a certificate at the end but contains the same information.
The parent representatives from the Penn State Parents Council who served on the steering committee gave their insights into the value of the module.
“The educational module can help students and parents navigate the sometimes complex world of apartment leasing. Knowing your responsibilities and understanding some legal terms will be very beneficial when it is time to rent. Going through the module is well worth the time invested,” said Paul Nawrocki, Parents Council member.
This new online module is one of many resources available to students to help them successfully navigate the transition to living off campus, although living off campus might not be the right choice for everyone. Students have many living options for their second year at Penn State and beyond. Some other popular resources include the office of Off-Campus Student Support for help navigating the off-campus marketplace and Student Legal Services for free lease reviews.