at least you're getting connections, which is more than some dorms get . . .

Anyway, have you asked around to find out who else on OSX in the dorms is able to connect, and why?

Look for posts on connection problems--they list the settings to try (checking the "force IP"in the prefs, opening the OSX firewall for port 6346, sharing a decent number of good files), but if your network admins are controlling filesharing, there's not much that's easy to do without their help.

Look for the "blue" coloured search results--they are on your local network and should download very quickly. Repeating searches can help find more sources too.

Sorry I can't suggest any easier fixes--post back and maybe you can help other dormies.