Residence Hall Tips

I. Communicate. Sit down and talk about habits, preferences, moods, and values at the beginning of the quarter. Even if you room with your best friend, you may be surprised to find out some things you did not know about him/her. If conflicts arise, such as one roommate studying late or another playing the stereo too loud, do not let your frustration build. Talk about your concerns in order to come to a mutual understanding. Although it may be awkward at first to talk about these issues, you may prevent hurt feelings later by laying ground rules early. Asking and discussing first before proceeding with an action can result in greater trust and respect. Here are some beginning questions to ask:

A. Where are you from?
B. What do you like?
C. What don't you like?
D. What do you plan to major in?
E. What do you want to do after graduation?

II. Establish House Rules. Roommates need to discuss the following areas to gain understanding of each other and learn to compromise:

A. Regarding the use of each other's belongings (food, stereo, TV, other appliances, and personal items): What items of yours are okay for me to borrow? Which are strictly off-limits?
B. Sleeping habits: Are you a heavy or light sleeper? Do you snore? What time do you go to sleep? What time do you get up?
C. Room cleaning: How neat and clean do you want the room? How do we decide who cleans what and when?
D. Telephone use: How late can someone call? How do we leave messages for each other?
E. Smoking: CSU is smoke free, no smoking is allowed in any residence hall room.
F. Entertaining guests: What about guest dropping by? How often? How late should they stay? How about weekend visitors?
G. Studying: How much do you study? When and where do you study? How quiet does the room have to be while you study?
H. Music: What kind of music do you like? How loud? Will you use headphones?
I. Room temperature: How hot or cold do you like the room?
J. Decorate/Arrange: How will we decorate/arrange the room?
K. Food: What about food in the room? Do we share?

III. Know when to talk and when not to. Sharing ideas and discussing situations is an integral part of residential life. Be aware, however, that excessive interruptions in studies can sometimes result in irritations and frustrations. Once again, talk with your roommate before you let frustrations build and cause you to explode.