It's the time of year that some students in State College realize they will be homeless next fall unless they sign a lease soon. Relax you won't have to move back in with mom and dad -- the housing fair is here.

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and tomorrow in the HUB Ballroom, the fair will showcase many of the local living arrangements from dorms to apartments. The realtors pull out all of the stops and show off their best apartments, while the University has promotions to sell you on dorm life. (And you can collect an assortment of free pens and key chains, too.)

Keep in mind that just because the housing fair is now, it doesn't mean you have to sign an apartment lease. Most large rental agencies will have spaces well into the spring -- if not in the fall.

Regardless of when you plan to find your new "home," the housing fair is a prime opportunity to check all your options. Whether you want your next home to be on or off campus, furnished or unfurnished, fend-for-yourself or meal points, the fair is the place to be.