Comment by VonBlue

> just because someone is paying for your room that shouldn't make it impossible for you to say "No" to them.

This is incredibly difficult to do, especially when you are young.

First, having the help and the time of someone who is known and respected in the community can already make you feel like you are imposing but also grateful for their generosity, especially if there are career implications (in your mind).

Second, when you are coming from a different culture, there may already be some battling of own (perceived) “inferiority” due to being an immigrant.

Third, when the person is “saving” you when you are in a situation of stress, the act of paying for a room is a lot more than just that.

Finally, the exact financial aspect of things can make it seem like you “owe” something.

I can picture my college self having a lot of trouble saying no in a situation like this. My current self would have no issues. In my own case, age and experience are very much factors that I would add as a fifth point.