Eating alone in the dining hall.

This is the worst experience, and you will probably only go through this once before swearing you’re “never ever going to the dining hall without a buddy ever again.” Even if no one is paying any attention, you can’t help but feel every eye on you while you eat. Of course there are times when the dining hall is empty between peak hours and eating alone isn't a big deal. When in doubt, take the food to go because eating alone in private is WAY less embarrassing.

The roommate.

Sometimes even if you think you and your roommate will be the best of friends, it doesn’t always work out. Some people manage to take “roommate from hell” to a whole new level. Make sure you stand your ground; it’s your room too! If you’re being sexiled 4 nights a week or you can’t seem to find the bed under the mess consuming their side of the room, find the nicest possible way to ask them to fix it. If you wake up in the middle of the night and they’re standing over you, that’s about the time you should request a room change.

Communal showers.

Although I have never truly had the pleasure of living in a dorm with a communal bathroom, the few times I've used them in friends' dorms were the most traumatizing showers I ever took. Having to use the same shower as 20 or more other people is not only unsanitary, but it also means you have to be comfortable showering right next to one of your floor mates separated only by a stall wall. The worst part about communal showers though, is the fact that you can't sing your heart out anymore without being judged by your neighbors. So buy yourself a pair of shower shoes and try not to think about the wonderfully private shower you left behind at home. Unless you're like me, then just count yourself lucky to only share with 4 other people.

Frat houses.

They’re dirty. When you have a group of guys living together in a house, no one is going to voluntarily clean it. I’m not just talking a little dust here and there; you will encounter walls that are brown with dirt and floors that your feet get stuck to. If you value your shoes, don’t wear them to a frat party. Invest in a cheap “fracket” (frat jacket) for colder months to keep you warm without ruining the outfit. But beware, once you take it off in the house, you may never see it again.

The food.

Sometimes it’s like a guessing game when it comes to the “food” served at the dining halls. Gone are the days of homemade dinners and brunches. Get used to eating the same thing every week (usually some form of chicken), because variety is definitely not on the menu. Even though you will probably get sick from most of the food in the first few weeks of school, your stomach will get stronger with time. This is when the Freshman 15 comes into play because these aren’t the most health conscious meals they’re serving you. Just because they’re serving Krispy Kreme Cheeseburgers (not an exaggeration, I’ve actually seen it) doesn’t mean you should be eating it!