Imagine having a roommate who bothers you and does not know where to draw the line. Sometimes your roommate may play loud music or invite a large amount of friends over without prior permission. We all know someone that has some sort of roommate problem. The question is how do we handle such a common issue?
A great way to start off the year is to draft your own version of a roommate agreement prior to moving in. Include what you and your roommate agree to, such as cleanliness, respect for your roommate’s property and what to do while they’re doing homework. Also, create a code of conduct for visitors and how you will respect quiet hours.
When drafting a roommate agreement, make sure to be as specific as possible. A lot of roommate arguments are too broad. For example, when discussing visitation, make sure you create a code of conduct and explain when visitors can and cannot visit and so on.
Communication is key when getting along with your roommate. Keep your ground. If you have an issue with your roommate, speak up, but nicely of course. Some conflicts may arise when roommates are too lenient or too “in your face” about situations that could occur.
Respect your roommate’s space. Everyone needs his or her space. If your roommate asks you to give them their space, give them their space. Sometimes people just need to be left alone when they’re going through a rough time.
Ask and you shall receive, sometimes. Have respect for your roommate’s property. Do you want to play with their iPad? What about storing something in their refrigerator? Ask your roommate for permission first. If you use their items without prior consent, bad things may happen.
Think before you speak. You may be really good friends with your roommate but watch what you say because you may not know everything about them. Some arguments may stem from comments that were not intended to be hostile. You may have a couple of brothers and sisters while your roommate is an only child or maybe your parents are divorced while your roommate’s are still together. You probably do not know the complete background of your roommate outside the dorm.
Along with the “think before you speak” theme, watch what you post on the internet. Your roommate may not appreciate the fact that you may feel left out or offended without even confronting them in the first place.
Having a class together with your roommate may help improve your relationship with them. If you are unsure of an assignment that is due or need assistance for a project, maybe your roommate can give you a hand. Working together as a team can strengthen relationships.
When in doubt, refer to the Cabrini College Community Standards Handbook. If you feel that your roommate is violating a standard, refer them to the handbook and talk to them about how the issue can be prevented in the future.
If all fails, talk to residence life to see how they can assist you. The professionally trained staff will work with you and help assist you with any issues you may have in the residence halls.
Laying the law down with your roommate may be difficult but hopefully some of these tips will help if any issues were to arise. Hopefully there won’t be.
Imagine having a roommate who bothers you and does not know where to draw the line. Sometimes your roommate may play loud music or invite a large amount of friends over without prior permission. We all know someone that has some sort of roommate problem. The question is how do we handle such a common issue?A great way to start off the year is to draft your own version of a roommate agreement prior to moving in. Include what you and your roommate agree to, such as cleanliness, respect for your roommate’s property and what to do while they’re doing homework. Also, create a code of conduct for visitors and how you will respect quiet hours.When drafting a roommate agreement, make sure to be as specific as possible. A lot of roommate arguments are too broad. For example, when discussing visitation, make sure you create a code of conduct and explain when visitors can and cannot visit and so on.Communication is key when getting along with your roommate. Keep your ground. If you have an issue with your roommate, speak up, but nicely of course. Some conflicts may arise when roommates are too lenient or too “in your face” about situations that could occur.Respect your roommate’s space. Everyone needs his or her space. If your roommate asks you to give them their space, give them their space. Sometimes people just need to be left alone when they’re going through a rough time.Ask and you shall receive, sometimes. Have respect for your roommate’s property. Do you want to play with their iPad? What about storing something in their refrigerator? Ask your roommate for permission first. If you use their items without prior consent, bad things may happen.Think before you speak. You may be really good friends with your roommate but watch what you say because you may not know everything about them. Some arguments may stem from comments that were not intended to be hostile. You may have a couple of brothers and sisters while your roommate is an only child or maybe your parents are divorced while your roommate’s are still together. You probably do not know the complete background of your roommate outside the dorm.Along with the “think before you speak” theme, watch what you post on the internet. Your roommate may not appreciate the fact that you may feel left out or offended without even confronting them in the first place.Having a class together with your roommate may help improve your relationship with them. If you are unsure of an assignment that is due or need assistance for a project, maybe your roommate can give you a hand. Working together as a team can strengthen relationships.When in doubt, refer to the Cabrini College Community Standards Handbook. If you feel that your roommate is violating a standard, refer them to the handbook and talk to them about how the issue can be prevented in the future.If all fails, talk to residence life to see how they can assist you. The professionally trained staff will work with you and help assist you with any issues you may have in the residence halls.Laying the law down with your roommate may be difficult but hopefully some of these tips will help if any issues were to arise. Hopefully there won’t be.
