This can be said of many situations where young people (with malleable characters - ie less set in their ways and interests and likely to get on with different

This can be said of many situations where young people (with malleable characters - ie less set in their ways and interests and likely to get on with different people) are put into close proximity to each other. Those who served in the military (particularly conscription), or worked or did voluntary service overseas or in a remote location or just in a tight group of workers often make similar strong bonds. I'm not sure I understand the reference to "before we get rid of colleges" but they are an expensive way of making friends.