The Misleading Facade of Dorms

A case against residence halls

By Marley Richmond

It comes as no surprise that an unprecedented number of college students experience forms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. According to “Heathline,” anywhere from 33–40% of college students are diagnosed with significant mental health problems, and up to 85% report feeling overwhelmed and experiencing other symptoms of anxiety; residence halls are one significant source of this distress. Often hailed as a quintessential part of the college experience, small, sad, and impractical dorms are hardly the most conducive environment for academic success or emotional wellbeing. 

Although many students find a community within their dorms, social struggles can be an added pressure to an already stressful, transitional period of life. From awkwardly telling your roommate that you don’t want a giant Game of Thrones poster on your wall to realizing your homophobic roommate has been praying for your conversion and salvation, “roommate problems” run the gamut from annoying to unsafe. A study reported by “The Atlantic” has found correlation between such high-stress, small-room environments and substance abuse, increased violence, and withdrawal. Overcrowded dorms can also lead to outbreaks of influenza, meningitis, the stomach flu, and other communicable diseases. 

So while the close quarters of a residence hall may promote a sense of community, they also create detrimental circumstances and extra burdens for students, often failing to live up to expectations. Whether no one came through the door you left open all of welcome week, or you get sick of living in 130 square feet of space, there is a bright future ahead of you: moving out. Having space to move around your living quarters can (and will) revolutionize college life post-residence hall. Truly, cooking in a real kitchen will never feel so liberating. If you find yourself spending every waking moment away from your cell dorm, hold onto this hope in the months to come.