7 answers
Shannon
Student
Pickerington, Ohio
2
Questions
Updated
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What is the best way to find a roomate your freshman year?
Many people pick roommates from Facebook and I am not sure if this a good method or not.
#college #housing #student-housing #dorm #college-advice #roommates
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7 answers
Jacob Schwarber, CPA
Finance Lead
130
Answers
San Francisco, California
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Hi, Shannon,
The roommate selection process is tough. I didn't do any work to pick a roommate - my freshman housing was assigned at random. I was very lucky - the two guys I lived with were great. We were all VERY different but it worked out. I am still friends with one of them today and had an amicable relationship with the other for the rest of college. I didn't live with either of them again, but they were both good roommates.
If you are nervous about who you will live with then it might be a good idea to see if you can find a good match using social media. I still think it is a gamble even if you do try to find someone that way. Living with a roommate is tough, whether it's someone you have never met before or a lifelong friend. The key is to be respectful of the other person's space and set some ground rules early on. If you have any problems, communicate them to the person you live with and, if that doesn't help, talk to your RA.
I linked a NY Times article that discusses best practices for solving roommate problems below. I hope this helps. Good luck!
Jacob recommends the following next steps:
Mary Kovacs
3
Answers
Bridgewater, New Jersey
Updated
Mary’s Answer
Hey Girl! I'm a sophomore at Georgetown and my roommate found me on Instagram. In some ways it worked out well and in some ways not. We talked a lot on instagram about the survey questions to make sure all of that was compatible and it was, so we did it. It was fun at first but because we had never met before moving in we didn't realize how different we were as people, even though we had similar living preferences and senses of humor. She was very antisocial, I liked to go out once a week and have my friends come to our room. She would always be in the room, I prefer to have alone time now and then. But these were things I think I would have figured out if I had met her in person first. So my best advice is this:
1) Message your person first to see if the basics line up. When do you go to bed? What temperature do you keep the room? Do you like loud music or not? How clean do your keep your room? Where do you want to study? Be honest here, it's super important.
2) Video Chat or meet in person if possible! This is a great way to get a sense of the person besides their written responses and how they look. Don't underestimate how important social interaction is, it tells you a lot about a person.
3) Actually fill out a roommate contract and make it specific and detailed. Do this before you agree to live together if you really think that person would be a good roommate so then you won't have any surprises later on.
And overall: Start Early! I waited until right before the deadline so I had no time to go beyond messaging and it didn't happen to work out. I know this seems like a lot of work, but it will save you a lot of stress and discomfort later on! While my roommate and I are still friends and it was no way a disaster, most of my stress in my freshman year had to do with feeling uncomfortable in my room and like I didn't have a safe space to relax.
1) Message your person first to see if the basics line up. When do you go to bed? What temperature do you keep the room? Do you like loud music or not? How clean do your keep your room? Where do you want to study? Be honest here, it's super important.
2) Video Chat or meet in person if possible! This is a great way to get a sense of the person besides their written responses and how they look. Don't underestimate how important social interaction is, it tells you a lot about a person.
3) Actually fill out a roommate contract and make it specific and detailed. Do this before you agree to live together if you really think that person would be a good roommate so then you won't have any surprises later on.
And overall: Start Early! I waited until right before the deadline so I had no time to go beyond messaging and it didn't happen to work out. I know this seems like a lot of work, but it will save you a lot of stress and discomfort later on! While my roommate and I are still friends and it was no way a disaster, most of my stress in my freshman year had to do with feeling uncomfortable in my room and like I didn't have a safe space to relax.
Jackie DeCicco
Front Desk Agent or Guest Experience Expert
40
Answers
Fort Myers, Florida
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
Hi Shannon,
I found that the best way to find roommates for your freshman year of college is to join the college's Facebook groups for your year! This allows all students to get to know each other through posts about yourself and where your fun, posting small biography's about yourself also allows people to reach out and message each other to see if you have anything in comment.
If Facebook is too large of a platform there are other applications where you can enter your information about college, biography, and roommate preferences and it will generate for you and connect you to get to know each other!
I definitely recommend joining the college social media groups because choosing roommates wisely is a very important decision when it comes to freshman year. You want to make sure you have someone who fits the standards of your lifestyle because it could lead to not getting along and difficult living situations.
I found that the best way to find roommates for your freshman year of college is to join the college's Facebook groups for your year! This allows all students to get to know each other through posts about yourself and where your fun, posting small biography's about yourself also allows people to reach out and message each other to see if you have anything in comment.
If Facebook is too large of a platform there are other applications where you can enter your information about college, biography, and roommate preferences and it will generate for you and connect you to get to know each other!
I definitely recommend joining the college social media groups because choosing roommates wisely is a very important decision when it comes to freshman year. You want to make sure you have someone who fits the standards of your lifestyle because it could lead to not getting along and difficult living situations.
Sheila Jordan
Lead Network Proj/Prog Manager
712
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Sheila’s Answer
Hi Shannon:
You could start finding a roommate by attending the seminars on financial aid, housing, etc. prior to your freshman year. Once you attend you could get the names of the students you met and keep in touch via social media. A niece of mine in college met a roommate that way. It worked out well because she and the roommate got along nicely. Her mom and roommate' mom became college Mom buddies. Best of luck to you!
~ Sheila
You could start finding a roommate by attending the seminars on financial aid, housing, etc. prior to your freshman year. Once you attend you could get the names of the students you met and keep in touch via social media. A niece of mine in college met a roommate that way. It worked out well because she and the roommate got along nicely. Her mom and roommate' mom became college Mom buddies. Best of luck to you!
~ Sheila
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6182
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Shannon,
How to Secure the Ideal Roommate in Your First College Year
Securing a suitable roommate during your first year in college can significantly shape your overall college journey. There are numerous strategies to discover a roommate, each with its unique pros and cons. A prevalent approach involves using social media platforms like Facebook to scout for potential roommates. While this method is handy, it may not always yield the most compatible roommate.
1. Leverage College Roommate Matching Services: Most colleges and universities provide roommate matching services within their housing application process. These services typically require students to complete a survey about their habits, likes, and lifestyle, then pair them with a roommate who matches their responses. This is an excellent strategy to find a roommate with similar interests and living habits.
2. Participate in College Housing Events: A further effective strategy to discover a roommate is by participating in college housing events like roommate mixers or meet-and-greets. These events offer a platform for students to interact with potential roommates face-to-face and learn more about them before deciding. This personal interaction can help you assess your compatibility with someone.
3. Connect with Incoming Freshmen: If you've already secured admission to your college or university, consider connecting with other incoming freshmen via social media or online forums. Join groups or pages for incoming students and introduce yourself to see if others are also seeking roommates. This approach allows you to form relationships with potential roommates before stepping foot on campus.
4. Evaluate Compatibility Factors: When scouting for a roommate, it's crucial to consider elements like study habits, cleanliness, sleep schedules, and lifestyle preferences. Ensure to discuss these factors openly with potential roommates to ascertain compatibility.
5. Set Ground Rules: Once you've secured a roommate, it's vital to set ground rules and expectations at the outset. Discuss matters such as splitting expenses, cleaning duties, quiet hours, guest policy, and other important issues to prevent future conflicts.
In conclusion, while Facebook can be a tool to find a roommate for your freshman year, it may not always be the most dependable method. Exploring other alternatives like college roommate matching services, participating in housing events, and connecting with incoming freshmen can help you secure a compatible roommate who will enhance your college journey.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review is a trusted source for college-related advice and information, offering insights into various aspects of college life, including securing roommates and navigating student housing.
U.S. News & World Report: U.S. News & World Report provides rankings and guides related to colleges and universities. Their resources frequently include tips on securing roommates and maximizing the college experience.
College Board: College Board is renowned for its comprehensive resources for students preparing for college. They offer guidance on various subjects related to higher education, including advice on choosing roommates during the freshman year.
These sources were referenced to ensure the information provided in response to the question about securing a roommate during the freshman year of college is accurate and reliable.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
How to Secure the Ideal Roommate in Your First College Year
Securing a suitable roommate during your first year in college can significantly shape your overall college journey. There are numerous strategies to discover a roommate, each with its unique pros and cons. A prevalent approach involves using social media platforms like Facebook to scout for potential roommates. While this method is handy, it may not always yield the most compatible roommate.
1. Leverage College Roommate Matching Services: Most colleges and universities provide roommate matching services within their housing application process. These services typically require students to complete a survey about their habits, likes, and lifestyle, then pair them with a roommate who matches their responses. This is an excellent strategy to find a roommate with similar interests and living habits.
2. Participate in College Housing Events: A further effective strategy to discover a roommate is by participating in college housing events like roommate mixers or meet-and-greets. These events offer a platform for students to interact with potential roommates face-to-face and learn more about them before deciding. This personal interaction can help you assess your compatibility with someone.
3. Connect with Incoming Freshmen: If you've already secured admission to your college or university, consider connecting with other incoming freshmen via social media or online forums. Join groups or pages for incoming students and introduce yourself to see if others are also seeking roommates. This approach allows you to form relationships with potential roommates before stepping foot on campus.
4. Evaluate Compatibility Factors: When scouting for a roommate, it's crucial to consider elements like study habits, cleanliness, sleep schedules, and lifestyle preferences. Ensure to discuss these factors openly with potential roommates to ascertain compatibility.
5. Set Ground Rules: Once you've secured a roommate, it's vital to set ground rules and expectations at the outset. Discuss matters such as splitting expenses, cleaning duties, quiet hours, guest policy, and other important issues to prevent future conflicts.
In conclusion, while Facebook can be a tool to find a roommate for your freshman year, it may not always be the most dependable method. Exploring other alternatives like college roommate matching services, participating in housing events, and connecting with incoming freshmen can help you secure a compatible roommate who will enhance your college journey.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used in Answering this Question:
The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review is a trusted source for college-related advice and information, offering insights into various aspects of college life, including securing roommates and navigating student housing.
U.S. News & World Report: U.S. News & World Report provides rankings and guides related to colleges and universities. Their resources frequently include tips on securing roommates and maximizing the college experience.
College Board: College Board is renowned for its comprehensive resources for students preparing for college. They offer guidance on various subjects related to higher education, including advice on choosing roommates during the freshman year.
These sources were referenced to ensure the information provided in response to the question about securing a roommate during the freshman year of college is accurate and reliable.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Yasemin G.
Aspiring physician
635
Answers
Updated
Yasemin’s Answer
Hi Shannon! I didn't dorm but a couple of my other friends did; one of my best friends ended up with a roommate she knew from high school so she definitely did get lucky. Sometimes roommates are assigned randomly and it can get a little difficult; my friend had a roommate she didn't get along with too well but then she had another roommate that she was friends with and got along great and even became greater friends! It really depends. If you know someone as well then I would recommend to maybe try to dorm with them or if there is a way to meet potential roommates on campus as well. It definitely is a bit of a wild card but in the end you may also end up with a best friend. As a last note roommates do change; you can make a request to change your roommate I believe and also dorms change as well as you move up in class level. For example my friend lived in a very nice dorm as a junior than as a freshmen and had more comfort as well with her roommate so that was also a bonus.
I wish you the best!
I wish you the best!
Stacy L. Peazant
Higher Education Professional | Academic & Student Affairs Specialist | Academic Advisor | Program Manager
5
Answers
Updated
Stacy’s Answer
Hi Shannon,
Colleges do their best to pair roommates who they believe will be compatible. As an incoming freshman, many colleges ask their students to complete a housing survey. Based on your responses, college staff work to pair you with your roommate(s). Once you've been informed of your roommate(s), reach out to them via social media to get to know them. You may also want to take the opportunity to discuss who will bring commonly shared items, e.g. small fridge, microwave, TV, etc. Don't expect your roommate(s) to be like you. Be open to a variety of differences. The key to living with roommates is to be respectful of each other's space and each other. You could end up living with a friend for life.
Best,
Stacy