There are two types of dorm styles in college: corridor and suite. Corridor-style dorms are dorms where you live in a double or triple and share a bathroom with everyone on the floor. Suite-style dorms are dorms with two or three doubles per suite with a common room, and you share one bathroom.
I found that after going to two colleges and living in both corridor- and suite-style dorms that I prefer suite living. However, living in a corridor-style dorm is great for freshmen, since they can form connections with everyone on the floor. In a suite, you mostly only form connections with people in your suite.
Living in a suite with my friends this year is the best thing that could've happened to me. Here is why I think living in a suite with your friends is the best:
1. Every day is like an episode of "Friends."
In my suite, I feel like I'm living with Phoebe, Ross, Joey, Monica, Chandler, and Rachel. Every day there is something comical happening, whether it's tasting authentic Chinese snacks or singing karaoke.
2. You can always be yourself.
My suite sees me at my best and worst. I can walk around singing songs with my pajamas on at 6:00 p.m. and no one will care because they're probably doing the same thing with me.
3. You don't have to go far to hang out with friends.
Last semester, I would walk a mile to get to my friends' dorm. Now, I have to just step two feet into the common room to see my friends. I may not get the exercise like I used to, but I enjoy more social time.
4. It's like living in an apartment.
It may not have all of the amenities of an apartment, but we make do with what we've got. The kitchen and laundry room are an elevator ride away, and we have three mini fridges and a Keurig in the common room. What more could starving college students need than three mini fridges??
5. It's a home away from home.
After a long day of classes and work, it's amazing to come back to the dorm and have it feel like home. It's comfortable and inviting, and my ohana is here. There is nothing more than I love when friends become family. I love you Chrissy, Gabi, Sara, Adrianna, and Pura!
