Who is my roommate

Sure, some people just choose to co-exist. They share space but not much else. But more often than not, people become friends and sometimes even best friends. Living together, studying together, hanging out together will do that to people.

If you decide to live on or off campus, in a residence hall or an apartment, your roommate will become an important part of your life at Penn State. No matter how you and your roommate end up together, you will be in for an experience that you will talk about and remember for the rest of your life. Just wait and see. Where can I find Financial Aid Withdrawal information? Carey School of Business. Can't find what you need?

Contact Us. What would you like to know? Reset Search. They are well trained in resolving conflicts and are eager to assist you in developing an effective roommate relationships with your roommate s and neighbors.

It is commonly known that Berkeley is a culturally diverse environment. Because of the many different cultural perspectives, there is tremendous potential for learning and personal growth, not only about yourself, but also about your roommate s and neighbors.

There is also the potential for misunderstanding. We are all going to make mistakes and no one is expected to be perfect. Talking about your background from your perspective, while also listening to your roommate s and neighbors, will help set the stage for understanding one another. Open and honest communication will help you to negotiate your needs, to accept differences in values and lifestyles, and to reach mutual compromise when necessary. Be aware of the assumptions and generalizations you make about people.

We all make generalizations and they are necessary in order for us to approach new situations. When our generalizations become fixed or rigid, despite new evidence to the contrary, they become stereotypes. Acting on stereotypes often breaks down communication and can set up barriers between you and your neighbors. The skills you will build to maintain relationships founded upon respect, consideration, and open communication will help you long after your have graduated from Cal.

Some of the skills that will assist you in developing a positive relationship with your roommate s , suite-mates and floor-mates are:. Roommate Personal Assessment By completing the Roommate Agreement, you and your roommate s can start to build and maintain the groundwork for a positive relationship.

Now it is time to meet with your roommate s and discuss your responses. Use your answers to assist you and your roommate s in reaching an effective Roommate Agreement.

Though the content of your Agreement may change throughout the year as you become acclimated to collegiate life at Cal, remember the framework for your discussion. You will be able to address situations when they arise during the year. It will not be uncommon for some of your preferences to change while living in the residences. It is also very possible that one or both of the roommates will not live up to the agreement.

You may choose to renegotiate your roommate agreement. Be sure to utilize the same tips as in your original negotiations. In addition, try to avoid blame and accusations when you renegotiate your agreement. Please feel free to contact hall staff if you have difficulty renegotiating your agreement.