2 answers
Audra
Student
Rochester, Minnesota
1
Question
Asked
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What is a common mistake that first-time dorm students make that is easy to prepare for or avoid?#Spring25
I am a graduating high school senior, bound to University of Minnesota Duluth in a couple months as a first generation college student. I have never lived outside of my hometown, or with someone that I don't know. Any common mistakes that are easily fixed?
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2 answers
Mel Hopokins
Telecommunications Engineering
1
Answer
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Mel’s Answer
Hi Audra,
That's a great question. One of the biggest challenges when moving from high school to college is learning to be independent. In high school, you have structure and often think, "I won't do that because my parents would..." But in college, you need to set your own boundaries.
You might face peer pressure or situations that test your values. It's okay to set your own limits, even if it means standing alone in your beliefs. Staying true to yourself is a strength, not isolation.
Remember, most friendships from high school and early college don't last beyond those years. Studies show many fade before we reach our 30s. Your personal journey will continue, so define yourself based on who you are, not your peers. I often told my daughter not to let short-term moments define her future.
Since you asked this question, I believe you can handle this!
Best wishes, and feel free to reach out if you have more thoughts to discuss.
That's a great question. One of the biggest challenges when moving from high school to college is learning to be independent. In high school, you have structure and often think, "I won't do that because my parents would..." But in college, you need to set your own boundaries.
You might face peer pressure or situations that test your values. It's okay to set your own limits, even if it means standing alone in your beliefs. Staying true to yourself is a strength, not isolation.
Remember, most friendships from high school and early college don't last beyond those years. Studies show many fade before we reach our 30s. Your personal journey will continue, so define yourself based on who you are, not your peers. I often told my daughter not to let short-term moments define her future.
Since you asked this question, I believe you can handle this!
Best wishes, and feel free to reach out if you have more thoughts to discuss.
Rory Medina
IT Software Development Leader
2
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Rory’s Answer
There can be a lot of anxiety going into a new dorm life situation with a stranger, but keep in mind that person is in the same boat as you.
Trying to be respectful and getting to know your new roommate is key. While you can't assume you'll be a perfect match and have the same boundaries and and hobbies, it is good to figure it out as soon as possible and even try new things if accommodable. I highly suggest being respectfully open and direct is the best way to figure things out the fastest.
Trying to be respectful and getting to know your new roommate is key. While you can't assume you'll be a perfect match and have the same boundaries and and hobbies, it is good to figure it out as soon as possible and even try new things if accommodable. I highly suggest being respectfully open and direct is the best way to figure things out the fastest.