Most people would agree that living on campus is part of the college experience, but living in a residence hall has its ups and downs. The UT housing Web site gives many convincing reasons for living on campus.

First, it reads that living on campus will give more opportunities to make friends. This can be true. Living with a roommate results in some type of relationship, whether or not you get along with her or him. Obviously, if you and your roommate have similarities and get along, then there is a friend. However, if you do not get along with your roommate,I met my best friends on my floor last year. Amanda Kittrell you branch out and join more organizations where you meet new people.

"I met my best friends on my floor last year," says Amanda Kittrell, a sophomore in Wildlife and Fisheries. Living on campus keeps you close to everyone and makes get-togethers easy.

Another aspect given is the convenience. "Where else can you live where you can roll out of bed at 7:50 and still make it to an 8 a.m. class?" the UT Web site reads.

Kayla Kmet, a junior in nutrition, said, "It's way more convenient, is a better location to my classes, and I feel safer. And my dorm is a whole lot nicer than my apartment from last year."  

Living in a resident hall also teaches lessons and skills that may be useful later in life. For example, you may not get along with everyone on your floor. Your neighbor may go to bed at three in the morning whereas you go to bed at 11 p.m. No matter what the case, differences in lifestyles teach cooperation and problem solving.It's way more convenient, is a better location to my classes, and I feel safer. Kayla Kmet

Other smaller aspects may also work out better in the long run. Some students have trouble studying in the dorm because of the constant flow of people and the constant noise, so they head to the library instead.

"I usually get more done in the library than I ever would in my room," said Sara Knoll, a sophomore in pre-pharmacy. "It mostly helps me in the long run."

Overall, living on campus provides many opportunities for college students. Almost every negative aspect can be turned into a positive outcome. Living in a resident hall brings various people together and teaches them how to live and work together.