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Cardozo Law Student Becomes Homeless on Purpose

By Cynthia Hsu, Esq. on January 05, 2012 | Last updated on March 21, 2019

Homelessness is a major problem in many major U.S. cities. It's such a major problem that one Cardozo law student decided to -- well -- "immerse" himself into it.

He became homeless by choice.

The student, who went by the pseudonym of "David" in an interview with the Yeshiva University Observer, wasn't facing financial problems. He wasn't forced out of his home. He decided to become homeless last spring because he "experienced the ultimate problem" of having no problems.

Makes sense, right?

It turns out that being homeless wasn't so bad for "David." He had a gym membership, which meant easy access to lockers and showers. He also had a nice, comfy law school library to nap in.

In total, he estimated he spent around 6 hours each night outside, according to the Observer.

He spent that time looking for dark and unobtrusive places to sleep. He also spent time avoiding the other homeless people. Why? Well, they scared him. He was afraid they might think that he was just "this yuppie guy" that "has money" who was "trying to be homeless."

Yeah, because he... isn't?

Surprisingly, it seems like "David" is a relatively successful law student. In the interview, he said he had an "internship" set up for his "dream job." It's unclear what kind of position he held.

Maybe it was a summer associate position at a New York BigLaw firm? If so, he will undoubtedly spend most nights sleeping on the floor and couch of his office anyway.

So there you have it. There is such a person who decides to be homeless by choice. But it is a choice after all. "David" was still a little soft. He moved back into his old apartment in November because it was getting a little too cold out. If only all homeless individuals had that luxury.

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