Are you ready for a roommate?

Think about the last time you arrived at a compromise with another person. How did you get there? Did you get what you wanted from the compromise? Can the other person say the same?

There’s no getting around it: Many of you come to campus with limited experiences in sharing a room with another person. Living with roommates and/or your neighbors will take some work, but it is not as hopeless as some may tell you. You both have come to Florida State University to succeed. How can you manage all of the new responsibilities placed upon you if you are not comfortable in your own room?

• As Residence Hall Staff, we are here to help. We have created a "Roommate Contract" that is completed during your first few weeks with the help of the Resident Assistant. This document is reviewed by your Hall Coordinator/Hall Director. It is a thorough guideline for discussion. When discussing your preferences and compromises, keep our “Roommate Bill of Rights” in mind:
  
  You have the right to:
• Sleep and study free from undue interference in one’s room. Unreasonable noise, guests and other distractions inhibit the exercise of this right.
• Expect that a roommate will respect one’s personal belongings.
• A clean environment in which to live.
• Free access to one’s room and facilities without pressure from a roommate.
• Privacy.
• Be free from fear of intimidation, physical and/or emotional harm.
• Expect cooperation in the use of “room-shared” appliances and a commitment to honor agreed-upon payment procedures.
• Be free from peer pressure or ridicule if one’s lifestyle choices differ from one’s roommate.
• The redress of grievances. Residence life staff members are available for assistance in settling conflicts.
  
  Be a survivor! Here’s how…
• COMMUNICATE early and often! Lack of communication is usually the source of any conflict.
• See your RA and complete the “Roommate Contract” as soon as possible. Come to agreements that you can live with, and terms that you both can agree upon.
• Set realistic goals: Don’t expect your roommate to be your best friend and constant companion. On the other hand, “best friends” who room together have often rethought their idea after one semester.
• Be considerate of your roommate’s privacy, values, and belongings. Avoid being judgmental.
• Courtesy is contagious. Ask first, take accurate telephone messages, etc.
  
  And when conflict occurs…
• When discussing your conflict, be honest, assertive and stand up for yourself.
• While it is natural to vent your frustrations, involving other residents and friends on the floor is unfair. Keep the issue private.
• If you cannot express yourself verbally, try writing down your concerns first.
• When you are having troubles, ask your RA, Hall Director or Hall Coordinator for help.