Living with a roommate One of the exciting things about living on campus is the opportunity to interact with and get to know your roommate(s) and/or suitemates. Getting along with a roommate is not a diffcult process, but it does require open and honest communication. It is very important that you keep an open mind as you get to know your roommate, because it can truly be a life-changing experience to meet and interact with people who may come from different backgrounds or parts of the country (or the world!), and students who have varied interests and goals.
LIVING ON CAMPUS
Below are a few things to consider as you get to know your roommate: 1. Talk to each other and communicate expectations regarding the living environment. 2. Consider the fact that your roommate may be as nervous about living with someone as you may be, as very few students have actually had to share a bedroom while living at home. 3. Talk about items you might want to bring into your room such as lounge furniture (if you are in a suite with a lounge), TVs, etc. 4. Remain positive and respectful of your roommate, and remember that you do not have to be exactly like your roommate in order to have a good living experience. 5. Advocate for your needs in an open and direct fashion. If there are concerns, try to share them with your roommate as soon as they come up so that they do not build into a bigger issue. Considering the following topics will help to ensure a positive living experience: v Study
time in the room/suite and guest policy v Bathroom use schedule for suite living v Sharing of food and cost of groceries v How to handle problems or conficts v Use of one another’s property, including TV, computer, etc. v Space for clothes, luggage, and storage v Cleaning the room, suite, and/or bathroom v Visitation
Student Rooms – What’s Included? Each student’s room is furnished with: v Desk
and chair (extra-long twin) v Dresser v Wardrobe/closet v Bed
All residence hall rooms include: v Wi-Fi
12
to meet your technology needs and allow access to Hofstra’s computer network v Free cable television access, including HBOGo; please bring your TV v Signal booster system to amplify cell phone coverage