Building Community in an Off-Campus Apartment Complex

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When you turn an old bedroom into a guest bedroom, you don't have to change much.

Living off campus doesn’t have to mean missing out on a sense of community. In fact, apartment complexes near ASU—especially ones designed with students in mind—can offer some of the strongest support systems and most active social scenes around. You just need to know how to tap into them.

If you’re eyeing PASEO’s pet friendly apartments near ASU, you’re already on your way to a lifestyle that mixes independence with connection. Here’s how to build community right where you live.

Create Connection Where You Live

  1. Start With a Friendly Hello
    You’d be surprised what a difference a wave or a quick intro can make. Say hi to your neighbors in the hallway, elevator, or laundry room. That small effort breaks down walls and opens the door for future conversations.
  2. Attend Resident Events
    Many student-focused complexes host mixers, pizza nights, pool parties, and more. Don’t skip them. These events are designed to help you meet people—and they often come with free food and swag.
  3. Get to Know the Staff
    Your leasing office team, maintenance crew, and community managers know everyone. Being friendly with them can lead to insider tips on what’s happening in the complex and opportunities to get involved.
  4. Use Shared Spaces Intentionally
    Don’t just hole up in your apartment. Hang out in the lounge, work in the co-working areas, or grill in the courtyard. These shared spaces are natural gathering points and great for meeting neighbors.
  5. Join a Pet Parent Network
    If you’ve got a furry friend, you already have a great excuse to be social. Chat with other pet owners, set up playdates, or organize a group walk. In places like PASEO’s studio apartments in Tempe that welcome pets, this is one of the easiest ways to meet like-minded neighbors.

Community starts with showing up and being open—it’s about creating a vibe where people know they can say hello and connect.

Social Events in the Complex

  1. Attend and Suggest
    Resident events are often planned by property staff, but they’re usually open to ideas. Want a trivia night, movie marathon, or dog costume contest? Suggest it. Better yet, offer to help organize.
  2. Start Something Casual
    Not all community-building has to be official. Invite your neighbors to a potluck dinner, game night, or study group. Post a note in the mailroom or shared space with your contact info.
  3. Make Use of Digital Boards and Social Apps
    Many apartment complexes use platforms like ActiveBuilding or private Facebook/GroupMe chats to stay connected. Join those groups and post friendly updates, shoutouts, or invites.
  4. Volunteer for Resident Committees
    Some buildings have tenant advisory boards or event planning groups. It’s a low-effort way to get involved, meet people, and shape the community culture.
  5. Be the Connector
    Notice two neighbors with similar interests? Introduce them. Have a classmate who’s moving in? Show them around. The more you build bridges, the stronger your community becomes.

If you’re living in one of PASEO’s 2 bedroom apartments near ASU, you have even more space to host, hang out, and build those everyday moments that lead to real friendships.

Remember: community doesn’t have to mean big events or dozens of friends. It can be as simple as knowing the name of the person across the hall, helping someone carry groceries, or planning a Sunday brunch with your neighbors.

Living off campus gives you the freedom to shape your environment. With a little initiative, you can build a network of people who make your apartment feel like home—not just a place to sleep.

 

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