Being a Good Neighbor

Two women smile and talk on the street

The ongoing relationship between Drexel University and the surrounding neighborhood is an interdependency that enriches the lives of all members of our Philadelphia community. Off-campus students like you play an important role in the development of a positive relationship between the University and the community, meaning we simply request that our students be good neighbors.

The following are a few suggestions for being the best neighbor you can be:

  • Introduce Yourself – Once you've finished unpacking, personally introduce yourself to your neighbors. If you feel comfortable, exchange phone numbers with them so you can contact each other if there are concerns.
  • Consider Your Neighbors' Lifestyles – Get to know your neighbors — what do they do for a living, what their schedules might be like, and so on. Sometimes you can remedy problems before they even start; for example, if they work nights, quiet mornings will be important to them. If they have young children, quiet evenings will be very important to them. Similarly, give them information that will help them be more considerate of your lifestyle.
  • Show Respect – Many neighbors have owned their homes for several decades and have a great investment in the community.
  • Offer a Helping Hand – Shovel snow, offer to carry your neighbors' groceries, or get involved in the block or community association:
    • The Powelton Village Civic Association (PVCA) serves the residents of Powelton Village and advocates for their concerns with the City and Drexel University. The Association consists of volunteers who contribute their time for the betterment of the community.
    • The Mantua Civic Association serves to advocate for and represent the issues and concerns of residents, to improve the quality of life for all, and preserve the identity and history of Mantua for the next generation.
  • Maintain the Appearance of Your Property – Keep your property clean and clear of debris. Stay aware of the schedule for trash and recycling pick up (typically on Mondays except on holidays). Put out the trash at 7 p.m. the night before pickup. If a holiday falls on a Monday, then pickup is Tuesday. Also, responsibly take care of the trash that has blown onto the property. Help keep the neighborhood clean by participating in clean-ups that are announced in your neighborhood and citywide. Fines for trash-related issues cost $50, such as Sidewalks Not Litter-Free, Premises Not Litter-Free, Trash Set Out Early, and Trash Not Securely Bundled.
  • Alert Your Neighbors to Parties – If you're planning a party or social gathering, give your neighbors plenty of warning about when it will start and how long you expect it to last. Leave them a telephone number to contact you if they need to ask you to turn the music down.
  • Be Aware of Shared Walls – If you're in a row home or any structure where you and your neighbors share adjacent living spaces, consider your noise levels. Consider moving TVs and speakers away from the partition walls.
  • Be Considerate with On-Street Parking – Parking can be a major challenge in any city. Take precautions to leave space for your neighbors. This may include speaking with guests about places to park near your residence, or being mindful of the amount of space left between vehicles.

Remember, you are a steward of Drexel University both on and off campus.