I am writing as an only child amidst the fall 2018-19 application process. I find the prospect of attending a boarding school thrilling, not only for the academic rigor and opportunities for independence but for the lasting connections I could be able to make with people from all walks of life. I’m concerned, however, about adjusting to living in a dorm. I’m a typical only child in that I’ve never shared a room with someone for a prolonged amount of time, (barring sleep away camp) nor shared a bathroom. I sure am spoiled. Can any only children/parents of only children tell me about what the adjustment was like? Has your experience with roommates been positive? What are dorm parents like? Thank you in advance.
Actually, a lot of only children choose BS precisely for this reason. And rest assured that most of the kids with siblings have not had to share a room.
What I have heard is that many kids find it hard to adjust to the "no downtime " set up at BS. They may have been used to coming home and just hanging alone in their room to recharge their batteries – now they need to find another way to get their “alone time”. Many also like that they are not watched quite as intently as they are by their parents. (Not so much of the “you seem wuiet, is everything okay? Are you sure?”)
My perspective is that of a parent, so is based on what my kid, his friends, and other parents have said. I am sure posters here can offer more info.