You are going to be living with a new person. What now?
One of the most exciting pieces of coming to college is getting to live with someone new. While this change may be a welcome new experience to some, it can also be highly intimidating. We understand that students can be hesitant to live with others, so we have some tips on how to manage living with a new roommate.
Tip 1: Be open
People are going to be different than you. The best way to create a great roommate relationship is to be willing to listen to others and be open to the differences of your roommate. Patience is the most important part of living with someone new.
Tip 2: Talk to each other
You will get a Roommate Agreement Form when you move-in to set expectations and boundaries with your roommate. Sometimes conflict will arise and confrontation is scary, especially when confronting a brand new person. Referring back to your Roommate Agreement will ease the awkwardness of this conversation. Remember, being tactful and kind will get you far.
Tip 3: Talk to your CA
Our Community Advisors (CAs) are trained in conflict mediation and supporting you when you're feeling overwhelmed or helpless with a roommate situation. Your CA can give you great guidance on how to improve your roommate situation.
International Students
One of the coolest opportunities is to live with an international student. Many students from all over the world come to Eastern through various programs to learn English, be engaged in American culture, and simply be in a new environment.
One of the biggest international programs we house is the Asia University America Program (AUAP). These students are primarily from Japan and live in the residence halls to learn English and get to know American students. While this experience is a great way to connect with different people, it can be overwhelming to someone who has not had experience with someone from a different country.
To ease some of the nervousness, we have some ways for you to be successful developing a great relationship with your roommate.
Tip 1: Be Patient
It's not easy trying to communicate with someone who speaks a different language, so seek to understand. Listen with an open mind.
Tip 2: Use apps
There are some really great apps that allow you to translate words and phrases easily. If you don't want to add more apps to your phone, Google Translate is an excellent tool.
Tip 3: Talk to your CA or IPA
Like our CAs, International Peer Advisors (IPAs) are student leaders there specifically to help you and international students with conflicts and communication.
You've tried everything and just can't make it work.
Fear not! While room changes are a last resort for conflicts, we know all people were not meant to be roommates. Some people may find their lifelong best friends, others may not. That's okay. If you find yourself in a position where you would like to change rooms, we do have a Room Change Process.
Room Change Process Steps:
- Talk to your roommate(s) about the issue.
- If nothing improves, you will need to talk with your CA for more guidance. The CA can also mediate the conversation if you feel like you would like extra support.
- The CA will then talk with the Residential Life Coordinator or Area Coordinator about the situation. The RLC or AC will ask to meet with you and possibly your roommate as well.
- If still nothing improves, you will be given a Room Change Request Form by your CA and the formal process of changing rooms begins.