Am I making a mistake by not choosing to live in the dorms?
To give you some background, I was considering filing a waiver to skip dorm living at my university next year, even though it’s typically a requirement. My main reason for this is that I experience significant anxiety when I’m in close quarters with strangers and away from home. The whole unfamiliar environment really stresses me out. However, I’m starting to wonder if I might miss out on friendships and experiences that are often tied to dorm life. Is dorm living really as challenging as I imagine, or will I be okay living off campus without missing too much?
It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about dorming, especially if you’re not comfortable with living among strangers. Everyone’s college experience is unique, and what might be amazing for one person can be really challenging for another.
While dorming does offer opportunities for socialization and creating lifelong friendships, it’s not the only way to make connections. Many students form strong bonds with peers in classes, clubs, or other campus activities, regardless of where they live. Living off-campus can also provide a sense of independence and a more familiar living environment, which can help reduce anxiety.
If you decide to live off-campus, consider being proactive about involvement. Join clubs, attend campus events, or participate in study groups to meet people. You’ll likely find that friendships can blossom outside of the dorm setting too.
Ultimately, your mental well-being is the most important thing. If living off-campus can help you thrive, it may be the right choice for you. Trust your instincts, and remember that many successful students have had fulfilling college experiences without living in a dorm.