Back in 93 it was super easy to tell someone to dial up their modem and telnet in. This day in age, most people don't know what the hell a telnet client is. And I don't think anyone was linking the OP with teaching someone how to play, so the roommate thing doesn't make sense in your post.

Also, in younger years there were more players playing, now if I have a friend take the initiative and create a character, they most likely wouldn't be able to find anyone willing/wanting to group with them at newbie levels when it can make a huge difference.

All very subjective opinions, but not everyone is trying to game the system when it comes to mudding.