Roommate Resources
So you're going to live with a roommate. What's that all about?
Living with a roommate is an iconic part of the college experience. For many students, living in a residence hall is the first time they've shared space with individuals outside of their family of origin. This is an exceptional opportunity for personal growth and learning, but it can also pose some challenges. Read through the resources below to help your transition to communal living.
Questions to ask your roommate or potential roommate:
Some students welcome news friends in the room, others prefer to keep the space more private. For many students, their feelings on daytime guests do not extend to the overnight hours. Make sure you and your current or potential roommate discuss how guests will be handled and approved.
Every student arrives at UD excited to become a part of the academic and co-curricular community. However, the distribution of their enthusiasm for academics vs. social life may vary. Likewise, 'social time' may differ greatly in it's presentation. College is a great time to explore all sorts of social groups and activities, but be honest with your potential or current roommate about where your current tendencies lie. For example, are you an all-night gamer? A hobby yodeler? A professional mime? Chat with your roommate about your social expectations and how it may impact your shared space.
Some room supplies might make sense to share, others may be off limits. Some items to consider:
- splitting the microfridge fee
- if either or both is bringing a large-screen tv
- rugs
- additional furniture
- snacks shared or not shared
- shampoo
- soap
- cleaning supplies
- fans
Disagreements are natural and should be planned for. The best time to talk about how to disagree is before you find yourself in a disagreement. Let your roommate know how you feel most comfortable receiving critical feedback, and how you might decide when priorities clash. In addition, the ground rules you set up in the beginning of the year might need occasional or ad hoc revision; talk about how to bring that up.
Residence Life & Housing is part of the Division of Student Life, which advances equity and inclusion, deepens student learning and drives holistic development through education, experiences and communities.