The key to successful roommate relations is open, honest communication: It is better to know how everyone feels about issues before problems arise.
Don't let problems go too long before you deal with them. It may be a simple problem that can be solved with some outside help.
Explore all the possibilities before you request a room change:
- See your RA or VP and try to work things out
- Use the roommate survival worksheet to work things out.
- You and your prospective roommate must set some personal priorities.
- Decide how flexible you wish to be.
- Determine how you might learn and grow from your shared experience
- If the problem escalates the Housing Services Associate Director may be able to help. A meeting may be set up by contacting the Housing Services Office.
Friends:
- I like to host parties
- As to overnight guests . . .
- My friends could best be characterized as . . .
- I am having a few friends over in our common room later/ I have an exam in the morning . . .
Habits:
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I prefer to cook and entertain in the unit regularly
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I drink/I object to drinking
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I am an early/late riser/retiree
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I am a heavy/light sleeper
Privacy:
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I need to be alone without intrusion (always, often, rarely, sometimes, never)
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I am a private/social person
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I like to have my door open/closed
Problems:
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I do/do not keep things inside myself
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I expect my roommate to listen if I am disturbed about something
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I am willing to listen when my roommate has a problem and wants to talk
Responsibility:
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Cleaning can best be accomplished by . . .
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Dishes should be done . . .
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I work best with a set schedule for housekeeping chores
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Each person should be responsible for . . .
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I expect a _____ level of cleanliness
Roommates:
- A good roommate to me is...
Sharing:
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I am willing to share expensive items like a bike, car stereo, TV, VCR, computer, etc.
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I am willing to share smaller items like CD's, dishes, food, and clothes
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I am willing to share groceries and cooking responsibilities/ I like to cook for myself
Studying:
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I prefer to study in the apartment/I need quiet time when I study
Volume:
- I like loud movies, music, and video games/ I prefer quiet activities