The experience of living on campus as a freshman is similar to the experience of an average childhood because it provides important development, but would probably not want to be fully relived by anyone.
Surprisingly, the reasons why one would not want to relive either experience are also similar: there is an implied lack of freedom as well as an overall restriction on ones life.
For a number of freshmen, the prime example for this lack of freedom is the rule which, in effect, denies freshmen parking their vehicles on campus.
The merits of this rule can be debated, but there is no doubt that its existence can feel very discouraging for freshmen, as owning a car has been a sign of maturation and freedom for teenagers since the 1950s.
Not having a car is just a feature in the underlying problem of staying on campus as a freshman; the relative limitations of engaging in ones personal lifestyle choices.
This problem can find its way in something as simple as food choice.
Out of monetary and scheduling convenience, a freshman might have to go to the same nearby places for food he or she might not necessarily want.
Where the conflict might be most common however, is the living circumstances in dorm rooms. It goes without saying that the communal nature of dorm rooms is expected to be different from how most students have lived up until that point, but the disturbances placed on many residents (whether by staff or other residents) can be disheartening.
For instance, in Sampson Hall many are often vocal about mandatory meetings and the $25 dollar charge for a misplaced key card. Residents are likewise vocal about the occasional late-night fire alarm prank as well as the need to wipe urine off toilet seats.
As an out-of-state, full-time student, it is best to stay on campus during sophomore year, but given enough funds, it is easy to see living in an apartment instead.
This is not to say that staying on campus freshman year is detrimental.
The likelihood of having ones desires and lifestyle completely accommodated is slim, and it is good to have that lesson reinforced.
Additionally, the living situation of dorms provides a chance for residents to meet potential friends who might not have otherwise interacted.
As I mentioned before, living on campus freshman year is an important development similar to childhood. And like childhood, there comes a point where one accepts that development and begins to establish who he or she wants to become.