Approximately 63% of student residing in campus housing want private rooms, sparing residents from sharing space. However, the remaining 37% may be rooming with strangers if shared dorms open this semester. When living in campus housing, you may share space with people you don’t know well. Therefore, it is best to have some ground rules to make your and others’ life easier

7 Dorm Etiquette Every College Student Should Know

Before you bid farewell to your parents, acquaint yourself with seven tips on being a considerate roommate. This will ease your transition and foster a harmonious living environment during your college journey.

1.    Be Open To Differences

When you head off to college, get ready to meet people with different beliefs, values, and lifestyles. Don’t shy away from change; stay open-minded and embrace the differences. You’ll have a chance to learn from them, and they’ll be eager to learn from you too. It’s all about expanding horizons!

2.    Coping with Dorm Sounds

Living in a dorm means dealing with noise from roommates and other students—always talking, music, and alarms in campus housing! Try using a white noise app or earplugs if it disturbs your sleep or study. But don’t forget to talk to your roommate about your expectations too. You could agree on a “no TV after midnight” rule or ask them to limit the snooze button in the morning. It’s all about communication to make dorm life more enjoyable!

3.    Creating a Guest Policy

If you are an extrovert who enjoys constant company, and and have a roommate who prefers privacy and alone time, it’s crucial to find a balance. Discuss your guest policy upfront to prevent any potential issues. To avoid conflicts later on, address questions about guests in a roommate agreement at the beginning of the school year. Discuss when guests can visit, if notice is needed, and the rules on sleepovers and romantic partners’ stays. Compromising early can prevent confrontations during the semester.

4.    Cleaning Up After Yourself

No one wants to live in a mess, but you and your roommate may have different cleanliness expectations. On move-in day, discuss and be open to each other’s needs. Find a compromise that works, whether you prefer everything neat or they thrive in a bit of chaos.

5.    Making Connections with Your Roommate

College brings excitement and nerves, being away from home and old friends. Make the transition smoother by bonding with your roommate. Spending around 90 hours together can turn you into friends, but don’t force it if it doesn’t click. Respect and get along as best as you can without being inseparable.

6.    Adhering to Dorm Rules

Besides setting personal rules with your roommate, following your college’s dorm regulations is vital. Most institutions have a student code of conduct that covers dorm etiquette, safety measures, and health standards. Check your school’s guidelines before making decisions about your room. There might be a curfew, pet policy, or rules regarding in-dorm appliances that you need to be aware of to maintain a peaceful living environment.

7.    Handling Major Problems Promptly

Address any problems with your roommate or other dorm mates without delay. Follow these steps when a disagreement arises:

• Identify the problem together, reaching a mutual understanding of the issue.
• Brainstorm various solutions, even considering unconventional ones, while ensuring everyone’s input is heard.
• List the pros and cons of each option to weigh their merits.
• Decide on the best resolution and discuss how each person will contribute to its implementation.
• If needed, seek assistance from your Resident Advisor (RA), as they are there to support you and can act as mediators if necessary. Prioritize open communication to resolve issues smoothly.

The Bottom Line    

As you embark on your college journey, dorm life presents unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Embrace diversity, communicate openly, and consider your campus housing roommate’s needs.

 Following these dorm etiquette tips, you can foster a harmonious living environment and make lasting connections with those around you.

Remember, college is not just about academics but also about navigating life’s intricacies and building meaningful relationships. Enjoy this transformative experience and make the most of every moment!