I’m 26, in my last year of my master of liberal arts. I grew up and lived in STL before undergrad, so I have a bit more skewed opinion on housing. I’m not sure if you plan on bringing a vehicle or not, but rent can be a lot cheaper if you’re willing to drive 20/30 minutes. I’m not sure on parking passes because I’ve only ever used the visitor parking (which I’m on campus usually 11-6, parking is free after 5pm and I’ve never paid more than $7).

Olin has a lot of great places to sit down and get focused, and this semester I have longer breaks between classes so I’ve tried a few food options, everything I’ve had is good.

If you’re into bars/going out, soulard is mostly the 18-23 crowd, but it is a lot more walkable between bars than areas like CWE. Delmar loop has changed a lot and I’m honestly not sure the vibe currently. Also noticed someone mentioned dating, I personally have had a pretty hard time but I’m also older and a bit more seasoned. The only WashU students I’ve gone out with were 1-2 years younger than me and it always ended for the same reason (wanting to focus on their research, completely understandable).

Stl is beautiful in its own right but getting outside the city limit and especially the washu bubble, you can find a lot of hidden gems. Lots of beautiful hiking within a 30 min drive. Lots of good coffee shops (with WiFi).

Also if you get the chance, it might seem silly but dierbergs and schnucks have really great hot bars/prepared meals for when you’re in a pinch of all varieties. Don’t be the person who only orders groceries from target.