We’ve all been there – you’ve just started college, and the idea of sharing a tiny dorm room with a complete stranger seems less than ideal. Your mind races with thoughts of privacy and personal space, and you may start wondering if there’s any way you can get a room all to yourself. One way to make that happen is by using a medical excuse, but is it really worth it? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of getting your own dorm room and how it could impact your college experience.
The Good: Medical Excuses That Could Land You a Solo Room
1. Allergies
Although most of us have some form of allergy to something, a severe allergy may be reason to require specific unique living conditions. Allergies to dust, pet dander, or even specific materials can make room sharing difficult and uncomfortable. Having a documented allergy from your doctor might make it easier for you to request a private dorm.
2. Sleep Disorders
Another good reason for qualifying for a single room is sleeping disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea. These disorders can make it hard for both you and your roommate to get a good night’s rest. Having a doctor’s note explaining your condition could be your ticket to a solo room.
3. Mental Health Conditions
Another valid reason is anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions that may require you to have more personal space and privacy. Talk to your therapist about the possibility of getting a medical exemption if you suffer from any of these conditions.
The Bad: Why You Might Not Want to Try This
Now that we’ve discussed some medical excuses that could work, let’s talk about the potential drawbacks of pursuing the coveted single room. Not to mention the moral dilemma of reserving a single room if you don’t technically require it!
1. Is it really worth it?
While it might sound appealing to have your own space, consider whether it’s worth the effort and potential drawbacks. You might just miss out on the social aspect of sharing a room and forming connections with your future roommate.
2. My BFF is now my roommate from my freshman year
For example, I’ll be honest – my roommate and I didn’t click right at first. But, over time, we became inseparable. If I had managed to get a room to myself, I would never have made such an incredible friend. The thought of missing out on that friendship makes me glad I didn’t pursue a medical exemption.
3. It’s hard enough to make close friends
Sharing a room with someone is an opportunity to bond and create lasting friendships. However, if I had been alone in my room, I might’ve struggled to connect with people and make friends. Fortunately, instead, we started to bond and the rest was history!
4. It would’ve been nice, but…
Sure, there were times when I wished for my own space. Like when my roommates concerningly gassy boyfriend stayed with us for a week lol. That said, I wouldn’t trade the amazing friendship I made with my roommate for the world!
What Do You Think?
Are you considering using a medical exemption to get a dorm room all to yourself? Did you pull it off in the past? Let us know if you have any other tips or suggestions for students considering this option! Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
