Common Myths About Student Hostels That You Should Be Aware Of
Student life is one of the most crucial phases in a person's life. The choices made in this stage have the potential to shape one's long-term career path. But sometimes, this can also be the time when you feel stuck due to certain challenges, such as location.
For instance, if you want to attend your dream college or university located in a different state, but hesitate to relocate due to some misconception you believe—a major concern for both parents and students.
In this blog, we will explore some common myths about student hostels, such as that they lack security, serve poor-quality food, require you to share your belongings, and more.
Myth 1: Hostels Are Dirty and Gross
One of the most common myths about student hostels is that they are unhygienic and poorly maintained. Although this stereotype might have been true in the past, it is far from today's reality. Cleanliness and maintenance are the priorities in most modern student hostels. Many hostels ensure that common areas are regularly cleaned and expect the same level of hygiene from residents in their personal spaces.
Amenities such as housekeeping services, in-room waste disposal, and regular cleaning schedules are crucial parts of many hostels. However, it is important to understand that cleanliness does not solely depend on the facility; the residents also share equal responsibility in maintaining a clean and comfortable environment.
Myth 2: Your Roommates Will Be Strangers
When students move into hostels, a common concern is the fear of sharing a room with strangers. This feeling is completely valid; however, it does not mean the gap will never be bridged. Initially, many students may feel uncomfortable, but over time, they often become friends, study partners, and even form a deeper bond that feels like family.
Hostel management also makes an effort to allocate rooms based on similar courses or lifestyle preferences, if such information is provided.
Myth 3: Hostels Have No Security
This misconception is among the prominent ones that most students and parents have. In reality, most hostels incorporate robust security systems to ensure that safety is never compromised. Security personnel, 24/7 CCTV surveillance, biometric access, and restricted entry points are some of the key elements often included in these security systems.
Some hostels for students in Mumbai even have dedicated buildings or floors for female students, offering an added layer of safety and comfort.
Myth 4: Students Drink And Party At Hostels
When someone hears about student hostels, they often picture a loud, chaotic place, filled with irresponsible behaviour. Although occasional social gatherings do take place, as they would in any student community, they are conducted under strict rules that discourage excessive noise, alcohol consumption, and other disruptive activities.
Our team members actively monitor the premises to ensure that the code of conduct and zero-tolerance policies are followed. The goal is always to maintain a safe and respectful environment that is student-friendly.
Myth 5: You Are Paying Money For Just One Bed
It is a common assumption among many students that those who stay in hostels are simply paying for a single bed in a shared room. However, most of them are unaware of the amenities that are actually included. In most hostels, especially the modern ones, a range of facilities is covered in the payment, which includes meals, study areas, Wi-Fi, laundry services, recreational spaces, 24/7 security, and more. Some of them even feature fitness centres and lounges, which encourage both academic success and personal growth.
Myth 6: Students Get Sick Eating Hostel Food
As with many other misconceptions about hostels, the idea that the food makes students ill is still prevalent. While it could happen in some cases, it is often due to other factors. For instance, changes in eating habits and lifestyle can lead to minor stomach upsets, but not necessarily because of poor food quality. Many reputable hostels follow nutrition guidelines to ensure a balanced diet and even undergo periodic inspections by health authorities.
Some even offer customisable meal options that allow students to stick to their usual diets. In many hostels, feedback is often collected through forms or suggestion boxes to assist students with their concerns or preferences.
Myth 7: You Will Have To Share Your Belongings
In the past, it might have been the case when you were advised to keep your belongings under your responsibility. But in today's hostels, things have changed significantly. Many students may still worry and believe that living in a hostel will require them to share their items, like clothes or gadgets. However, only common spaces like the kitchen and lounge are shared. Hostel life gradually instills mutual understanding and respect for personal boundaries. To ensure that everyone's belongings are safe and respected, many hostels provide private shelves, personal wardrobes, and lockable storage options.
Myth 8: Hostel Life Is Very Uncomfortable
Another commonly believed myth about hostel life is that it offers limited facilities and uncomfortable conditions. While the truth is far from that idea, most modern hostels are thoughtfully designed as supportive environments for students, promoting both comfort and personal growth. They include dedicated study zones, proper ventilation, and shared spaces, including entertainment zones and lounges that encourage relaxation and social interaction.
Today's hostels not only provide a comfortable living experience but also contribute in ways that strengthen the academic focus and overall well-being of students.
Myth 9: Hostels Are Loud And Not Fit For Studying
While many people assume hostels are a place with a noisy environment with little control, most hostels have designated specific areas as study zones with a comfortable and quiet ambience. Some even include reading rooms and libraries, where students can focus without interruptions or distractions.
Their digital infrastructure is also strong, which often includes high-speed internet and access to printers or scanners, which reduces the need to leave the hostel for academic tasks.
Myth 10: Hostels Are Situated In Sketchy Neighbourhoods
Contrary to the popular belief that student hostels are located in poorly connected or unsafe areas, most are strategically situated near universities or coaching centres. The hostel providers carefully chose the location to ensure proximity to essential services, including transport, hospitals, and supermarkets. The localities generally have strong security and surveillance in place so that students enjoy a safe and comfortable environment with well-connected services.
Conclusion
Hostels are one of the best accommodation options for students who live away from their families to pursue their academic goals. While adjusting to hostel life can be initially challenging, especially for those accustomed to staying with their families, these facilities are carefully designed keeping the convenience of students in mind. Several myths still linger due to outdated portrayals and misconceptions. Whereas in reality, these offer a safe, convenient, and community-driven environment from all aspects.
Are you looking for a student hostel in Mumbai, close to college locations or universities nearby? Contact us—a student-centric stay offering comprehensive services such as housekeeping, laundry, 24/7 security, college drop-off facilities, and more. Get in touch to explore the best location, perfect amenities, and competitive pricing.