Roommates who value and exercise mutual respect and consideration for one another, are much more likely to have a successful and lasting roommate relationship. An integral part of community living is learning to resolve concerns and issues in an appropriate and effective manner. Dealing with conflict as a student can be especially challenging, especially when the conflict is with someone you interact with each day. When trying to address a concern, or resolve a conflict, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Get to know your roommate and neighbors. This will help you anticipate each others’ individual needs and schedules, and encourage cooperative behaviors.
- Become familiar with housing policies, procedures, and resources available to you within your hall.
- Be respectful of others’ personal belongings and space, and encourage the same respect towards your space and property.
- When a conflict arises, talk with the other party regarding your concerns. Chances are they may not even know their behaviors are affecting you.
- Try not to procrastinate from resolving the problem. Avoiding conflicts usually means they will escalate and become more difficult to address later.
- Find a time and place when and where you will both be able to comfortably and openly discuss your concerns.
If you are uncomfortable speaking with your roommate regarding a conflict, contact someone neutral who can assist you. Resident Assistants are trained in conflict mediation, and are willing to help with a roommate conflict, concern, or to discuss your options. In addition, the Counseling Center and the Residence Life Office can be of assistance.
Remember that it is your right and responsibility to be comfortable in your room and make your room a safe and secure environment. If you feel that you are not able to do this, it is your responsibility to speak up and address the issue with the offending parties.
New students and
roommates that are new to each other as roommates are required to fill out and
sign a roommate contract with their roommate(s). The contract will address standards and expectations for behavior towards one another in regard to sharing a room. The contracts will be distributed by your Resident Assistants, and can be revisited at any time to accommodate all roommates.