Living with Roommates

Roommate Agreements

Once you move into your new home, you will meet your new roommate(s). While we wish for the best possible scenario, we understand that sometimes it can be difficult to adjust the way that you live. We require all roommates to fill out a Roommate Agreement Form. A Roommate Agreement is an agreement made between roommates about different responsibilities and needs from each roommate in the room. It can specify cleaning schedules, sleep schedules, or needs regarding lights and music in the room while studying. Once they are filled out, a copy will be kept on file with your Resident Advisor and another will be posted visibly in your room.

It is important to note that while living with someone, there will be times when things do not go the way in which you are used to or expected. Roommates are expected to learn how to compromise and understand that conflict naturally occurs when you are sharing a space. Learning how to communicate with each other is vital for everyone’s success and experiences. If a situation ever becomes unsafe, though, the Office of Residence Life will assist and ensure all parties are in a safe environment.

Room Cleanliness

You and your roommate (s) are responsible for the cleanliness of your room and bathroom. The residence hall custodians are responsible for cleaning corridor areas. There are periodic health and safety inspections performed by the Resident Advisors to ensure the cleanliness of the rooms and bathrooms. It is imperative that roommates discuss cleanliness responsibilities during the first day.

Tips for Living with Your New Roommate

Clear communication from the start

Having communication between roommates is extremely important for amicable living. If you set ground rules from the start, both roommates know exactly what is expected of them. This keeps roommates from arguing over problems that could have been addressed when first moving in together.

Solve problems as soon as you can

Letting problems fester is one of the easiest ways for students to dislike their roommate. If you have something that’s bothering you, it’s best to get it out in the open as soon as you can. This helps roommates know what’s bothering each other and do their best to fix it.

Remember whose belongings are whose

No one likes when someone messes with their things. Having respect for each other is a key part of having a roommate. It may not seem like a problem with one roommate, but it can be a big problem for the other. The best practice is to set ground rules about each other’s things from the start, and always ask if it’s ok to borrow the other’s belongings.

You may not be best friends

We see on TV and movies all the time how college roommates are best friends, but this isn’t always the case. Students may not be great friends with their roommate, but that’s okay. The most important thing is to have respect for each other so you both can enjoy your time as much as possible.

Remember the golden rule

Always treat your roommate how you would like to be treated. If you follow this rule, you’ll know your roommate is being respected the way you would like to be. If you like to be notified when your roommate has other friends over, make sure that you’re notifying your roommate when your friends are over. Learning to live with a college roommate can be a wonderful time and growth experience. Setting a few ground rules can be the key to building good memories that last a lifetime.

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