Joining a dorm can be a great way to make new friends, experience independence, and save money on housing. But what are the specific reasons why people choose to live in dorms?
Reasons People Join Dorms
According to a recent survey by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), the top reasons why students choose to live in dorms are:
- To make new friends (62%)
- To experience independence (55%)
- To save money on housing (48%)
- To be close to campus (43%)
- To participate in campus activities (39%)
Other reasons why students choose to live in dorms include:
- To meet new people from different backgrounds
- To learn about different cultures
- To develop leadership skills
- To get involved in campus organizations
- To have access to campus resources
Benefits of Joining a Dorm
There are many benefits to joining a dorm, including:
- Making new friends. Dorms are a great place to meet new people from different backgrounds and walks of life. You can make friends with people who share your interests, who are from your hometown, or who are from different countries.
- Experiencing independence. Living in a dorm can be a great way to experience independence for the first time. You will be responsible for your own schedule, your own meals, and your own laundry. This can be a great way to learn how to be self-sufficient and to manage your time wisely.
- Saving money on housing. Dorms are typically more affordable than off-campus housing. This can be a great way to save money on your college expenses.
- Being close to campus. Dorms are typically located close to campus, which makes it easy to get to class, attend campus events, and use campus resources.
- Participating in campus activities. Dorms often have their own activities and events, which can be a great way to get involved in campus life. You can participate in intramural sports, attend movie nights, or go on field trips.
How to Choose a Dorm
If you are thinking about joining a dorm, there are a few things you should keep in mind:
- Location. Where is the dorm located? Is it close to campus, your classes, and other important amenities?
- Size. How big is the dorm? How many people live there? Do you prefer a small or a large dorm?
- Amenities. What amenities does the dorm offer? Does it have a kitchen, a laundry room, a fitness center, or a study lounge?
- Cost. How much does it cost to live in the dorm? Is it within your budget?
- Community. What is the community like in the dorm? Are the residents friendly and welcoming? Do they share your interests?
Tips for Dorm Living
Here are a few tips for dorm living:
- Be respectful of your roommates. Your roommates are your neighbors, so it is important to be respectful of their space and their belongings. Be quiet when they are sleeping, and clean up after yourself.
- Get involved in dorm activities. Dorms often have their own activities and events, which can be a great way to meet new people and get involved in campus life.
- Take advantage of campus resources. Dorms typically have access to campus resources, such as libraries, computer labs, and fitness centers. Take advantage of these resources to help you succeed in your studies.
- Have fun! Dorm life can be a lot of fun. Make the most of your experience by meeting new people, trying new things, and getting involved in campus life.
Tables
| Reason | Percentage of Students |
|---|---|
| To make new friends | 62% |
| To experience independence | 55% |
| To save money on housing | 48% |
| To be close to campus | 43% |
| To participate in campus activities | 39% |
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Making new friends | Dorms are a great place to meet new people from different backgrounds and walks of life. |
| Experiencing independence | Living in a dorm can be a great way to experience independence for the first time. |
| Saving money on housing | Dorms are typically more affordable than off-campus housing. |
| Being close to campus | Dorms are typically located close to campus, which makes it easy to get to class, attend campus events, and use campus resources. |
| Participating in campus activities | Dorms often have their own activities and events, which can be a great way to get involved in campus life. |
| Factor | Considerations |
|---|---|
| Location | Where is the dorm located? Is it close to campus, your classes, and other important amenities? |
| Size | How big is the dorm? How many people live there? Do you prefer a small or a large dorm? |
| Amenities | What amenities does the dorm offer? Does it have a kitchen, a laundry room, a fitness center, or a study lounge? |
| Cost | How much does it cost to live in the dorm? Is it within your budget? |
| Community | What is the community like in the dorm? Are the residents friendly and welcoming? Do they share your interests? |
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Be respectful of your roommates | Your roommates are your neighbors, so it is important to be respectful of their space and their belongings. Be quiet when they are sleeping, and clean up after yourself. |
| Get involved in dorm activities | Dorms often have their own activities and events, which can be a great way to meet new people and get involved in campus life. |
| Take advantage of campus resources | Dorms typically have access to campus resources, such as libraries, computer labs, and fitness centers. Take advantage of these resources to help you succeed in your studies. |
| Have fun! | Dorm life can be a lot of fun. Make the most of your experience by meeting new people, trying new things, and getting involved in campus life. |