Connect with roommate

Overview

If you've been matched with a roommate, reach out and begin building a relationship. Early communication sets the tone for a positive living experience.

When You're Matched

• Notification typically in July
• Some schools in August
• Email or portal message
• Includes contact information

Reaching Out

First Contact

• Friendly, curious, open
• Introduce yourself briefly
• Ask about their background
• Share your background

Template Message

Hi [Roommate name],

I'm [Your name], your roommate for the fall! I'm really excited to meet you.

I'm from [hometown], graduating from [high school]. I'm planning to study [major] and I'm looking forward to [specific thing about the school].

Tell me about you! And if you want to plan any room setup details or share interests, I'm happy to chat.

Looking forward to moving in!

[Your name]

Early Conversations

Share About Yourself

• Your personality
• Your interests
• Your values
• Your goals

Ask About Them

• Same questions
• Interests in common
• Expectations for college
• Life goals

Room Setup Logistics

Who Brings What

• Discuss larger items (microwave, mini fridge, TV)
• Avoid duplicates
• Share cost of joint items if possible

Room Layout

• Beds configuration
• Desk placement
• Storage solutions
• Decor preferences

Shared Items

• Cleaning supplies
• Kitchen items
• Storage containers
• Small appliances

Expectations

Sleep Schedule

• When do you usually sleep?
• Early bird or night owl?
• Weekend differences?
• Accommodations needed

Study Habits

• Where do you prefer to study?
• Need quiet time? When?
• Music preferences?
• Desk habits?

Cleanliness

• How often do you clean?
• Shared vs. personal space
• Chore rotation?
• Maintenance standards

Visitors

• Guests frequency
• Overnight guests
• Significant others
• Quiet hours

Technology

• Shared TV or streaming?
• Internet usage and priorities
• Phone call habits
• Wake-up alarms

Food

• Who brings kitchen items?
• Shared vs. personal food
• Dietary preferences or restrictions
• Refrigerator organization

Religious/Cultural Practices

• Quiet time for prayer
• Dietary restrictions
• Religious objects
• Cultural holidays

Political Views

• Respectful disagreement
• Don't debate in room
• Agree to disagree
• Avoid toxic arguments

Building the Relationship

Take It Slow

• Don't overwhelm with questions
• Let conversation develop
• Meet in person eventually

Listen Equally

• Don't dominate conversation
• Show genuine interest
• Remember what they share

Be Honest

• Your actual preferences
• Your deal-breakers
• Your quirks
• Your lifestyle

Be Flexible

• Different from you
• Could be great
• Room for growth
• Learning experience

Before Move-In

Visit Before (If Possible)

• Helpful if close by
• Meet in person
• Reduce move-in surprises
• Get to know their personality

Virtual Meeting

• Zoom or phone call before move-in
• Better than text alone
• Shows more personality
• Reduces awkwardness

Coordinate Arrival

• Who moves in when?
• Parent involvement
• Room setup order
• Avoid chaos

Red Flags in Communication

• Avoidance of questions
• Inconsistent with facts
• Major value clashes
• Harmful substance use
• Safety concerns

What If You Don't Click

• Roommate issues are normal
• Give it time
• Address early
• Escalate if serious

During Move-In

First Days Together

• Be patient
• Give space
• Establish boundaries
• Start conversations

Setting Room Rules

• Within first 2 weeks
• Written if possible
• Review together
• Revise as needed

Conflict Resolution

• Address issues directly
• Don't let resentment build
• Involve RA if serious

Throughout the Year

Ongoing Communication

• Weekly check-ins
• Discuss changes
• Share emotions
• Maintain relationship

Changes to Routine

• Exam weeks
• Visiting parents/partners
• Going home for breaks
• New job or internship

Conflict Resolution

• Direct communication first
• RA involvement for escalated
• Housing office for serious issues

End of First Year

• Celebrate the year
• Decide about next year together
• Graceful transition if separating

Common Roommate Mistakes

• Pretending to be different
• Ignoring conflict
• Not communicating expectations
• Borrowing without asking
• Bringing guests without notice
• Not respecting boundaries

Great Roommate Habits

• Open communication
• Respectful of space
• Flexible when possible
• Kind gestures
• Shared responsibilities
• Mutual support

Social Support

• Meet mutual friends
• Attend events together
• Build a small community
• Share meals sometimes

Independence

• Separate social circles
• Different schedules
• Individual activities
• Own friendships

Parents

• Don't involve in roommate disputes
• Trust your judgment
• Update only when severe
• Make your own decisions