The cost of living in university apartments and the suite-style Eaton Hall is more expensive than the typical residence hall, but students said they don’t mind the expense, given all of the amenities included.

Since the 2002-03 academic year, residence hall students are moving into upgraded housing — 757 have moved into Frederiksen Court and 21 residents have moved into Eaton Hall, said residence life coordinator John Shertzer.

Jeff Seago, sophomore in forestry and Frederiksen Court resident, said he likes being able to cook on his own and have a sense of independence.

“It’s so close to campus, you can’t hardly beat it,” he said.

Seago said the cost of living at Frederiksen Court is more than the cost of a regular residence hall room, but the extra expense is worth it because of the space.

Chasity Miller, sophomore in apparel merchandising, design and production and Frederiksen Court resident, said she lived in the dorms last year.

She and three friends from the residence halls decided to move to Frederiksen Court because they wouldn’t have to worry about monthly bills like many apartment dwellers, she said.

“I like that it’s still on campus and the bus stops are right out there,” she said.

Miller said she also likes the ample room for parking.

Alta Byg, contract coordinator for Frederiksen Court, said the fee to live in Frederiksen Court includes heating, air conditioning, water, sewer, garbage, Internet connections, a local phone line and a washer and dryer located within the apartment.

There are many distractions when trying to study in the dorms, Miller said. At Frederiksen Court, it’s easier to study because she can go to her own room, she said.

Another new type of residence hall, Eaton Hall, is gaining popularity despite the higher cost.

Greg Hatt, freshman in marketing and Eaton Hall resident, said living at Eaton Hall is like living in a hotel.

“You have a bathroom, temperature controls and it’s roomy,” he said.

Hatt said Eaton Hall is not as social as other residence halls, but that was something he expected before coming to Iowa State.

“I think it’s worth it for what you get,” he said.

Kathleen Bryda, Eaton Hall director, said one of the main reasons students choose to live in Eaton Hall is because it is the newest residence hall and has suite rooms.

Bryda said each house has a study room, conference room, a computer lab, laundry facilities, a kitchen and a den.

“The physical layout promotes academic focus and socializing with neighbors and building mates,” she said.

But even with the added room, students said it is harder to meet new people in the newer-style housing.

Ben Cuentas, junior in marketing and community adviser at Eaton Hall, said residents of Eaton have to take initiative to meet new people.

“Eaton is a more of a make-it-yourself community,” he said.

The social atmosphere is much more secluded at Frederiksen Court than in the dorms, Miller said.

Residents of Frederiksen Court don’t keep their doors open so it’s harder to meet people, she said.

Also, they don’t have weekly house meetings like they did in the residence halls, she said.

“Dorm life is something you have to experience,” she said.