Life in any college dorm can be two things: the greatest thing to ever happen to you, or the worst thing to ever happen to you. Providing an unparalleled opportunity to live in community with your peers, college dorms may serve as the backdrop for some of the best times of your life. From applying for housing to learning to live with your roommate, here are things you need to know about dorming in college and loving it!
1. On campus living has its perks.
Many residential programs offer on campus activities and programs throughout the year to attend and take part of! At these activities you can meet other people on campus while doing pretty cool stuff!
2. Deadlines are essential.
I can not stress how important housing deadlines are! I highly doubt you want to be homeless throughout college, so get on with applying for your college/universities housing ASAP. Space is typically limited, so if you don't apply soon enough, your options will be limited too. It is very much a first come first come first serve type of thing.
3. Dorms are loud.
If you're use to high volumed music and noise this may not be a problem for you. However, if you're anything like me you know you will need quiet space when study time comes around. I recommend locating your school's library or student center where there may be quite rooms and/or designated study rooms to log your study hours in.
4. Your RA is not the bad guy.
Residential assistants are there to help you with anything you need help with while living on campus. Just follow the rules and you might just realize how awesome and cool your RA's might be!
5. Dorming isn't cheap. (Don't we all wish it was!)
Luckily the college I attend has a very reasonable cost compared to other colleges and universities. In 2008-2009, room and board cost an average of $7,748 at public colleges and $8,989 at private colleges. Save up and make sure to earn as many scholarships and aid as you can to help you afford the dorm you're trying to apply for.
6. On the other hand, dorm living can save you money.
It can definitely be cheaper than renting your own apartment, where you'll need to pay for furniture, utilities, phone and Internet service, commuting, and more.
7. Certain items are off-limits.
Hot plates, candles, and halogen lamps are common dorm room no-nos. Review your dorm's restricted items list before you pack. For any Dalton State students who are living on campus, I've uploaded a list of things that are allowed and are not allowed while living on campus below this point. 
8. Expensive stuff and college dorms do not go together.
You're better off snagging a sofa out of the trash than letting your mom buy you a new one. That couch will be sat on, slept on, and spilled on, so why waste money on something nice?
9. You can't fit the contents of your room at home into your dorm room.
Don't even try. Your roommate will thank you for any restraint you show in your packing.
10. You can't bring Princess and George.
Sorry, but pets are against the rules at most every school. If you need some love from furry friends, volunteer at a local animal shelter.
11. You will be surrounded by people.
That can be comforting at times, and a drag at others. Go for walks by yourself or get up early when you need some quiet time.
12. Living in close quarters prepares you for the give-and-take required in marriage or any major relationship.
Learn to play nice with others now, and you'll be a much better companion later on.
