DKCDO,
I will be joining you next year at NYCOM. I personally live at home because I am very close to the school. Since I've lived here so long, I am familiar with the area. I understand the situation that you are in. From what I understand driving from NJ to LI is not too bad if you don't go during rush hour. However, I would not recommend living in NJ and traveling to LI everyday.
You might want to consider getting a place in Glen Head right near the school. It might be worth it to just stay close to the school where you will be the majority of the time, instead going midway between here and NJ. When you do have a little free time to see your girlfriend, the drive still isn't that bad back to NJ.
You mentioned getting a place midway which I don't think is going to make that big of a difference in saving so much time going to NJ...however, traveling back and forth to school everyday is gonna be a B*tch if you do that. It is totally your decision what you decide to do and definetly get other peoples opinions, that's just mine.
If you decide to live closer to school, I would recommend Glen Head, Glen Cove, Port Washington, Mineola, Franklin Square. Rents can run high in this area of Long Island so make sure you really look around to find a place that isn't too bad.
If you wanna live mid way, I would say go with an area like Forest Hills which is more upscale or Rego Park, etc. I would avoid Bensonhurst, Sheepsheadbay, etc. To be honest, I personally get a little nervous when I'm down in that area at night.
Do your research...and good luck with your decision. I'll see you at NYCOM next year!
