Many residents come into the residence halls without the experience of sharing rooms and living spaces with their peers. Residents are paired up electronically to the best of Housing's ability and are asked to share a room. We acknowledge the adjustment this may take and have put together a list to help you make your transition.
The following tips are suggestions that could have a positive impact on your life.
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Interact with other residents. Start by saying hello to that new person you see in the elevator or person sitting next to you in The Dining Room. Get to know your neighbors even the shy ones. Put yourself out there, at your own pace, and the benefits will be clear. |
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Talk to your new roommate before you get here! They want to talk to you! talk about who will bring what because there's no need for two tvs or two rugs or phones in your room. This will make it easier on you at move in. Also talk about who will get to the room first and let your roommate know what time you plan to get here. |
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Do not post policy violations on MySpace or Facebook. Staff does not actively seek pictures out but if they are told they have to investigate. You are best off not to post any violations. Not that you would violate any of the rules but make sure you remind others. |
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Be a good neighbor. Don't rely on "people-harming humor" for an easy laugh. Show an interest in other's news. Visit each other's rooms. Being kind, open and friendly makes for a better living environment for all. |
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Ask questions instead of making assumptions. Things build up when people assume instead of knowing what is going on. There is no need for gossip and rumors, they only cause conflicts. |
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Value your differences, as well as your commonalties. You are going to meet many different types of people and that will add to your experience in the halls. Be open and learn from each other and you may find you have more common with that person then you think. |
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Express concerns and frustrations with your roommate instead of discussing with others or holding it in. This helps keep conflicts from occurring. |
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Be considerate. It seems simple but a shocking number of people neglect to do so. Ask before you have people over, play music, turn on the television, change the temperature of the room, or especially borrow things. It really does help. |
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Traveling home. Try not to go home on the weekends often. Weekends are for bonding with roommates and exploring your new surroundings. The best way to not feel home sick is to explore San Diego and make it your home! |
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If you do Travel use Sigalert.com to check the speeds on the highways at that exact moment and see if there are accidents in your path. |
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Bring shower sandals to the halls. The best way to not have a future problem is to bring an extra pair of sandals for the communal showers. |
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Attend hall programs put on by RAs and your Hall Council. These are a great time to meet new people in your hall. There are more interesting people in your hall! Say hello and introduce yourself. You are all in the same boat when it comes to friends. |
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Exercise and eat well. Nutrition and exercise are key to a good experience in the halls. Join your roommate or floor mates when they are going to the ARC. See the Menu section for tips on eating well. If you are not into the gym then hike, bike, and play IM. |
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Balance your lifestyle accordingly to enjoy life and do well in school. If you see that pleasure is affecting school then re-focus yourself more on school work and maybe spend time with others that are focused on school as well. If you balance effectively you can have the maximum amount of enjoyment at San Diego State University. |
