Appalling—the GEM is a parasite to Corvallis. Do not live here. For the absurdly high rent, which is constantly rising, you'll get dorm living with broken appliances, artifacts from previous tenants, lights that flicker or don't work at all, rooms that exceed 90*, lack of parking availability, and a suite of employees that could not care less about you or their employment. They care more about pestering you and forcing unnecessary meetings than doing their job; if you have an issue with your room, rent, or anything that they are responsible for, just give up due to this institution's dishonesty, lack of transparency, and accountability. This is by far the worst housing subsidiary of OSU, which is a damn shame given it is the best location. It's embarrassing for the school that they allow and enable vultures to take advantage of students this way. Go somewhere else, you'll pay less and have things real $1000+/m apartments have like in-unit laundry and square footage exceeding a closet.

Pros: - They're full apartments, even the studios. Private bathroom and private kitchen! (no dishwasher though) - Rent is not that bad considering all utilities are included. You also get free access to Xfinity on Campus. - Although people moan a lot about the heating/AC system, it's better than nothing and nice to have most of the time. - Free laundry and gym. - The location is nice, super easy to get to class. Cons: - Noise isolation isn't great, particularly out into the hallway. - The fire drills happen too often imo. - The building isn't as friendly as a true dorm, so keep that in mind. If you like privacy though, this is probably a pro. - Parking is through an OSU RA pass, which is like $350-400 yearly and only works for the apartment lot. - Not sure how other apts are but I don't have a full-size fridge or space for it. Just a half height under counter fridge. Overall, I'd recommend living here.

The Pros: - Convenient location. Close to campus, Freddies, and downtown Corvallis. Bikeable and walkable. - Free laundry services. - A fitness facility. - Apartments are cozy and furnished when you move in. - Picturesque view from my apartment. - Clean lobby and public areas. The Cons: - Lack of communication between the residents and staff members. Our trash chute was out of order, but there is still no follow up if residents can resume using it. - The two places you can put your bike are your apartment or outside. My second weekend here, my bike got messed with on the bike racks. Also, some bikes are missing their seats. - It is near the frat houses, so it can get loud on weekends and game days. Other Notes - Half of the staff are caring and engaging, but a few staff members seem indifferent. How and when an issue is resolved depends on who you tell. Overall, I like living here. My apartment is great, and it is in an ideal spot. Since it just changed management from CHNW to OSU, I think they have some wrinkles to iron out, but so far, so good.

The GEM is a modern-themed residence that emphasizes a stress-free environment for Oregon State University students. It has eight floors of rooms, in-building laundry, and a small workout space. Pros: The GEM is right across the street from multiple key academic buildings, convenient for students. The walls are somewhat thin but noise is not an issue. Utilities are included in the rent. Cons: Rent is comparable to other nearby leases but on the high end overall. Despite the dorm layout and propaganda by the leasing office, there is no "community". Because The GEM is for students, it is tough finding a roommate/"sublet" that will be approved. The living arrangement is definitely not for everyone and the rent/sq. ft. is high. However, it is a good, quiet place suitable for busy students.

Definitely book a room ASAP! The location is great, the staff is amazingly nice, there is free coffee in the office and more!!! My time at the GEM was great, I met a ton of nice people and am sad I had to move. The price may be a bit high, but that's with ALL utilities, AC/heating, laundry facilities and a gym downstairs and because of how close it is to campus. Some people say there is no climate control in their rooms, but there are thermostats in each room! I was comfortable year round :-) I highly recommend a room at the GEM!