Dorm life has it’s struggles, adjusting to something new is never easy. Sharing a shoe-box space with someone you probably just met will push your limits, but if you’re lucky enough you’ll also have the best time of your life.

1. You’re on your own.

College is everybody’s first time on their own. It’s full of mixed emotions and learning how to take care of yourself; doing your own laundry, making your own food, keeping your room clean, being responsible for staying on top of your homework, or other responsibilities. This may not sound difficult, but it is a big adjustment to living at home with your parents.

2. You have to share a small space.

Most of us have probably never shared a room in our life, let alone a tiny shack-sized room. Limits will be pushed. You’ll have to adjust to sharing the space. However, if you’re lucky enough, you’ll be sharing this space with your best friend. My freshman roommate has been one of the best friends I’ve ever had.

3. There’s no privacy.

You’ll probably never have alone time, which can be a blessing and a curse. When you’re doing homework you’ll probably have to put headphones in or go somewhere other than your room to stay “distraction-free.” But when you’re upset and feeling a little homesick, you can’t hide. You’ll have someone to talk to vent to always, no matter what it’s about.

4. Food is tough to come by sometimes.

If you’re anything like me, you’re too lazy to walk all the way to the dining hall. Why do that when Chipotle is closer? Oh right, because it’s all you can eat and already paid for…

5. Not only do you have to share space, but you have to fit all your stuff in a small space!

Going from living in a regular house with your family to sharing a room the size of your bedroom at home is a challenge, but also include your kitchen, study area, bed, food, and closet into that… It’s not pretty most of the time, so forget the high expectation of “dorm goals.” It’s a mess.

6. Take this chance.

Living in a dorm is your only time to live this close to your best friends. So make friends, leave your door open, participate in the random dorm activates, hang out in the lounge, live beyond the four walls of your room.