Dorms are like apartments, except there is more oppeness between all of the inhabitants. In college most people will keep their doors open so people can socialize and sift in and out. Plus, it invites people to come in and hang out, work on homework together, and just bring people together as a community.

The key rules of dorm life: respect other people's space as well as your own. And, as always, treat people the way you would want to be treated.

You don't want to be stuck with a horrible roomate or a horrible room for an entire semester. Be picky when it comes to dorm selection.

Don't stress about it. You'll probably find a lot of people are just as nervous as you are - and some of them have even less experience living with other people than you do! Just be friendly and respectful, and you'll get along with most people really well. A word from the wise, though, if your school offers multiple dorms, check them out on your visits and ask around. Some schools are more open than others about where the parties are and where the more studious kids are, but other students are fairly reliable. Just be prepared for a hefty dose of "MY HOUSE ROCKS", which is usually a good sign.