Living in dormitories is an essential part of the college experience, something that I am sure most incoming freshmen look forward to when they’re about to enter college. A dorm is not only about having a place to sleep at night. It’s more than that.

It’s about being friends with your new classmates and forging life-long friendships; it’s about making memories with the people with whom you will spend an entire year; it’s about coming out of your shell and developing your social skills. But most importantly, it’s about enjoying your college experience to the fullest. Here are 7 things that make living on-campus so worth it.

1. Convenience

If you live on campus, you are only a few feet away from your classes. This makes waking up late so much easier to handle than if you’re staying an hour away with your parents. As college students, you should get as much as sleep as you can, while still being able to attend class on time.

2. Resident Advisors

They are our “fake” but “cool” parents while we’re away for college. RAs are generally very friendly and approachable, and are always willing to help out with whatever we may need, from facility issues to roommate conflict.

3. Campus food

Not the best reason on this list, but I’d take what I can get. With your meal plan and stipends, you can get food almost whenever you want (as long as you’re only hungry before midnight).

4. Floor mates and roommates

They are your best friends when you and your roommates are not on good terms. The people living in the same building as you are also your best friends. Don’t feel like you’re out of options when your roommates have personal issues.

5. The desk receptionists

There are some really lovely people that work and live in your dorm, and some of them are desk receptionists who greet you, check you in, and give you spare keys when you lock yourself out of your room. They are known for their friendliness. I am glad I work as one during the school year.

6. Party in your room?

Yes, but do it when you don’t have school the next day.

7. School spirit

It is always a good thing to show some school spirit. Besides having a wardrobe filled with your school’s T-shirts, what better way to do that than establishing your residence right on campus?