Ryerson’s new commuter hostel is already popular with students even though it’s only been promoted in a few news stories and by word of mouth since its launch on Sept. 15, according to university administrators.
Valerie Bruce, coordinator of housing operations and administration, told The Ryersonian that the hostel has been completely booked for the last two weeks, with requests for rooms stretching into December.
The nine rooms are located on the second floor of the International Living and Learning Centre (ILLC). The space resembles a hotel room with a double bed, bathroom and Internet access. There are private and shared rooms available for a maximum three nights in a row and limited to six nights per month.
To deter partying and other unwanted behavior, rooms aren’t available on Friday and Saturday nights.
The purpose of the hostel is to be an alternative to sleeping at a desk in the library or student lounge for commuter students who have an early class or need to stay late on campus to work on a school project.
Bruce said the hostel gives commuter students the chance to get involved in the Ryerson community.
Despite the hostel’s popularity, there are no plans to expand the space, Bruce said.
“It’s always a dream,” Bruce said, “however, we don’t have the capacity within the building to build more rooms.”
The housing administration is looking into a partnership with local hotels to offers students affordable rates, she said.
This article was published in the print edition of the Ryersonian on Oct. 28, 2015.
Katie is so excited to be covering Ward 27 for the Ryersonian this fall.
She just finished a six-week internship at CBC News Network on The Exchange with Amanda Lang. Katie is working towards a career in broadcast journalism. She is a huge fan of country music and loves to bake cupcakes for her friends and family.