Be a Great Neighbor

Roommates and Suitemate Policies

As you settle into dorm life, it's essential to create a positive and respectful living environment for yourself, your roommates, and your neighbors. Living in close quarters can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with responsibilities. To help everyone enjoy a harmonious and comfortable stay, we’ve compiled a list of key guidelines on how to be a good neighbor and roommate. By following these simple yet important practices—ranging from effective communication to maintaining hygiene and respecting shared spaces—we can all contribute to a supportive and thriving community. Let's work together to make this dorm a place where everyone feels at home!

1. Respect Quiet Hours

• Be mindful of noise levels, especially during designated quiet hours. Use headphones when listening to music or watching videos, and keep conversations at a reasonable volume.

2. Communicate Openly and Honestly

• Establish clear communication with your roommate(s) and neighbors. Discuss boundaries, expectations, and schedules early on to avoid misunderstandings. If conflicts arise, address them calmly and respectfully.

3. Keep Shared Spaces Clean and Hygienic

• Maintain cleanliness in shared areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and living space. Regularly clean surfaces, dispose of trash properly, and don’t leave dirty dishes or food out. Establish a cleaning schedule if needed to ensure everyone contributes.

4. Practice Personal Hygiene

• Take care of your personal hygiene by showering regularly, washing your hands, and keeping your belongings clean. Avoid leaving personal hygiene items like toiletries or dirty laundry in shared spaces.

5. Be Considerate of Personal Space

• Respect your roommate’s personal space and belongings. Avoid borrowing or using their items without permission, and allow them to have privacy when needed.

6. Be Inclusive and Friendly

• Make an effort to include your neighbors and roommate(s) in activities or conversations, but also be mindful of their need for alone time. A friendly greeting or small gestures of kindness can go a long way.

7. Follow Dorm Rules and Policies

• Adhere to dorm rules and policies, such as guest policies, noise regulations, and any other guidelines provided by Residence Life. This helps create a positive living environment for everyone.

8. Respect Differences

• Understand that everyone comes from different backgrounds and has different habits and preferences. Be open to learning from these differences and practice tolerance and respect.

9. Share Responsibility for Cleanliness

• Share the responsibility for keeping the dorm clean and hygienic. Regularly take out the trash, clean up spills immediately, and make sure common areas are tidy. Proactively contribute to the upkeep of your shared living space.

10. Be Punctual with Shared Resources

• If you’re sharing appliances, bathrooms, or other resources, be mindful of time. Don’t monopolize shared spaces, and leave them clean for the next person. Clean up after yourself in shared bathrooms and kitchens to maintain hygiene for everyone.

11. Handle Conflicts Calmly

• If conflicts arise, try to handle them calmly and directly with the person involved. If needed, seek help from a Resident Assistant (RA) or other Residence Life staff to mediate the situation.

12. Set Boundaries Early On

• Discuss boundaries regarding things like noise, guests, personal belongings, and hygiene standards early on. Clear boundaries can prevent many issues down the line.

13. Be Understanding During Difficult Times

• Everyone has tough days. Be supportive and understanding if your roommate or neighbor is going through a rough patch. A little empathy can strengthen your relationship.

14. Respect Overnight Guests Policies

• Be mindful of the dorm’s policies on overnight guests, and always inform your roommate ahead of time if you plan to have someone stay over. Ensure your guest respects the shared space and hygiene standards as well.

15. Be Flexible and Adaptable

• Sometimes things won’t go exactly as planned, and flexibility is key to maintaining a harmonious living environment. Be willing to compromise and adapt when necessary.

16. Stay Involved in the Community

• Participate in dorm events and activities. Building a sense of community can help strengthen relationships with your neighbors and create a more positive living experience.

17. Be Mindful of Personal Odors

• Be aware of personal odors, including body odor, strong perfumes, or food smells that could affect your roommate(s). Regularly wash your clothes, change your sheets, and avoid leaving food out that might spoil or attract pests.

These guidances now include important aspects of hygiene, helping to ensure a clean, comfortable, and respectful living environment for everyone.