My son had long been out as gay when he was preparing to go off to the U. of Chicago in 2008 – he came out at home and to his friends when he was 12 – and of course he was concerned. As was I. Anyone who thought back then that homophobia wasn’t a potential issue anymore in college settings – or thinks so now – would be incredibly naive. He requested a single room (which was also very important for him for a number of reasons having nothing to do with his being gay), and was fortunate enough to get one. Which eased everyone’s anxiety greatly. Having his own room turned out to be very beneficial to him… And he was able to avoid any issues with homophobia in college. Unlike in high school, where it’s a lot more difficult to escape.