Universities Weblog

The missing roommate, the crazy dorm mate who massacred a dozen people, the suicidal roommate who ensured you a 4.0 GPA…these are just a few of the urban legends with a college theme, that college students love to spread.

The tradition is still going strong, with these legends passing from one generation to the next.

It's no surprise that college is a prime time for these stories of woe, as studies have shown that urban legends are most popular during confusing times when people need to make sense of the world. Yep, sounds like college, all right!

Have you ever told–or believed–an urban legend? Which is your favorite? Why do you think urban legends are so popular, and why are people so willing to believe them?

From MSN.com:This is just one example of the kinds of urban legends that make their way through most college campuses. Here are some others:

Keep the Lights on
I know you've heard this one before–so many times that you're not even spooked by it anymore. It goes something like this: A female college student who's been studying at the library (or hanging out with friends, whatever) returns to her dorm room late one night. She assumes her roommate is sleeping, doesn't want to wake her, so goes to bed without turning on the lights. She wakes up the following morning to discover the murdered corpse of her roomie, and a message on the mirror that reads, "Aren't you glad you didn't turn on the light?"

Creeptastic! However, this story has never been proven true, so there's no reason to be scared to live on campus. Perhaps a group of resident advisors started the rumor in order to keep their advisees from inviting strangers back to their rooms.(Photo Courtesy of Girl's Health.)

Did you enjoy this article?