Many adjustment problems may stem from the difference between initial expectations and later, experienced perceptions. To test this theory in relation to the social climate of university living units, and to assess initial perceptions and predictions of the future in relation to level of social exploration as a coping style, 92 entering freshmen completed the University Residence Environment Scale (URES) and the Edwards Social Exploration Scale. The URES was administered again, 12 weeks later. Results showed the freshmen were not able to predict accurately what their dormitory environment would be like. Males and females had similar initial perceptions and predictions. Freshmen with a more active social exploration preference both predicted and perceived their social environment differently than freshmen with a more passive preference. However, active preference freshmen did not predict their future environment any more accurately than passive preference freshmen. Examination of how students' expectations are formed is needed in order to provide accurate information for preventive intervention. (Author/JAC)