College roommates can become friends for life, with a little common courtesy and respect. They can mean fun, laughter and great memories.
Common courtesy and respect towards your roommate(s) will ensure a fun college year. When living with other students keep in mind the following:
- division of chores (e.g. Dishes, cleaning, lawn care, snow shovelling)
- “if it’s not yours don’t touch it”. This includes food, clothing, and other personal belongings.
- Having friends or guests over. Make sure you let your roommates know ahead of time, they might have a test, or may be having friends over as well.
- Communicating. Discuss issues, no matter how small they may be.
Get to know each other…before you move-in
Whether you will be arriving to Fleming solo or have decided to request a roommate from home, it is beneficial to take steps to get to know all of your suitemates before you move in. Even before you move-in here are a few suggestions to help get things started off on the right foot.
- Share basic information about yourselves with each other
- Figure out what everyone is going to bring and what items your suitemate be willing to share.
- Connect on social media and start learning about your suitemates.
When you move-in…
Within the first few days after you move-in we recommend that you sit down with your roommates to talk through and develop a Housemate Agreement. This can be used to guide a conversation about how you are going to live together.
Other Resources
Housemate Agreement
Clear Communication Strategies
How to Help a Friend
How to Confront Others with Care