In the world of dorm life, your door is more than just a slab of wood with a handle. It is the front line of your privacy. When you are living in a space that is part home and part social hub, those few inches between closed and wide open can say a lot.
Here is the 2025 guide to what your door might be telling people:
Door closed: You are in do not disturb mode. Maybe you are studying, napping, or just need a breather. Either way, this means knock first.
Door cracked: You are open to company, but you still want a heads-up. A simple “Hey, you in?” works before stepping in.
Door wide open: Come on in. You are in full social mode. Just do not be surprised if friends wander in with snacks or a study buddy in tow.
When in doubt, ask. Everyone has different comfort levels, and respecting those boundaries can make dorm life much smoother.