Roommates who value and exercise mutual respect and consideration for one another, are much more likely to have a successful and lasting roommate relationship. An integral part of community living is learning to resolve concerns and issues in an appropriate and effective manner. Dealing with conflict as a student can be challenging, especially when the conflict is with someone you interact with each day. When trying to address a concern, or resolve a conflict, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Get to know your roommate and neighbors. This will help you anticipate each others’ individual needs and schedules, and encourage cooperative behaviors.
• Be respectful of others’ personal belongings and space, and encourage the same respect towards your space and property.
• When a conflict arises, talk with the other party regarding your concerns. Chances are they may not even know their behaviors are affecting you.
• Try not to procrastinate from resolving the problem…..avoiding conflicts usually means they will escalate and become more difficult to address later.
• Find a time and place when and where you will both be able to comfortably and openly discuss your concerns.
• If you are living on campus, become familiar with housing policies, procedures, and resources available to you within your dorm.
• If you are uncomfortable speaking with your roommate or neighbor regarding a conflict, contact someone neutral who can assist you in your approach, or help you think through your options. Some resources to assist you include: If you are living on campus, Resident Assistants, Resident Directors, Counselors-In-Residence, and the University Ombuds Office; if you are living off campus, the University Ombuds Office and Off Campus Connections.