Living in a suite with 11 20-year-old men is unique, to say the least. You begin to value certain things, but also realize how awesome it is living with your best friends.
Personal Space
You have to learn to share your space and material items with everybody, which can be an issue at times. If you grew up having your own room this can take some getting used to. If you bring in any type of food into the suite be aware it will be eaten in a matter of moments.
At the same time, you have to set boundaries. Some people need more personal space than others. Some people may like to listen to loud rap music all hours of the day, and others might like a quiet space to do work. You have to share a small bathroom which can be simply vile at times. Some people may be more clean than others which can be an issue (thank god for the Saint who cleans our suite).
Overall, there is this essence of "what's yours is mine" and that could not be more accurate. Sharing certainly is caring in suite-style living.
Jokes
As guys we love to crack jokes on each other and create a loose atmosphere where everyone can laugh and have a great time. Since you are with your suite mates the majority of the day they most likely know personal information about you and you have to have thick skin. It may seem strange but roasting each other is our way of expressing our gratitude for that person. We never want to hurt each other's feelings, these jokes are just friendly jabs to cause laughter among the group. Sometimes that line is crossed and that is when jokes can become an issue, but you become comfortable enough with each other to say when someone has gone too far.
Brotherhood
When you spend so much time with people, they truly become family. Their issues become yours and you care about their well-being. Maybe they have a big test, girl issues, family issues, but you will be glad to give them advice. You go on late night adventures, you eat meals together, you do homework together, and you value all of this time with your brothers. You are excited when someone reaches a goal or achieves a goal. You value late night conversations that you know you will remember for the rest of your life. You may have too much fun on the weekend and reminisce over Sunday brunch. Your brothers are what make these college years special because real life is approaching way too quickly. Soon enough this will all be over and you will be glad you lived in a suite and made priceless memories with your "family."
When it's all set and done and you walk across that stage with your diploma, what will you remember?
