Roommate success guide – prior to moving in together
Get to know each other over the summer
Take time to talk Accordion Open
Your roommate’s email address can be found on their profile on your application status page in the Housing Portal. Be sure to email your roommate to introduce yourself if you haven’t yet, and start to correspond regularly. Set up a time to talk on the phone or online to continue to get to know each other better. Not sure what to talk about? Use these questions as a starting point.
Meet up in person Accordion Closed
If possible, try to arrange to meet in person over the summer. Many potential roommates try to attend the same Orientation session. It is a great way to spend time together, and even stay in the same room during Orientation as a trial run. If you happen to live relatively close to each other, you may plan to meet up for lunch.
The more personal interactions you have before move-in day, the more comfortable you will be with one another. If you can’t meet up in person, continue to touch base over the phone, Skype, or FaceTime.
Plan for your arrival Accordion Closed
As you get closer to August and you start to shop and pack for college, it is a great idea to compare notes and plan together. Here are some important topics to discuss prior to moving in:
- What are you bringing for the room: TV, computer, microwave, any big items?
- What types of room decorations are you planning to bring?
- Is anyone coming to help you move in?
- What time will you arrive?
Prepare for the big day
Smile! Have fun! Accordion Open
Once move-in day arrives, it’s important to have a positive attitude and focus on enjoying the day. People who smile and are friendly are much more approachable than those who appear irritated. Even if you encounter some bumps while moving in, try to smile your way through the day. This simple step should help ease any nerves or tension between you and your roommate on the big day.
Set up your room together Accordion Closed
Discuss the best placement for furniture. Work together to hang posters, pictures, and other decorations. Helping each other while creating a comfortable living space will help break the ice and make for a fun move-in day.
Explore campus together Accordion Closed
Your new roommate is in the same boat as you. Both of you are just starting college and everything is new! Invite your roommate to walk around the residence hall with you to meet new people. Grab something to eat at the Union. Check out the Welcome Week activities happening on campus. Check in with your RA about what is happening that week. Experiencing things together that first week will help to enhance your roommate relationship and create great college memories.