Positive Roommate Relationships and Conflict Resolution
Your enjoyment of residence hall living depends largely on the consideration you and your roommate(s) show each other. If there is one factor that is the most important determinant of roommate success, that factor is communication.
Roommate Agreements
Roommates need to communicate with each other. An ideal opportunity for this communication exists at the beginning of the year, when residence hall staff distributes the Roommate Agreement forms. These agreements initiate discussion of issues that commonly cause conflict between roommates, such as hours for sleep and study, use of the stereo and TV, guests, etc. We highly recommend that you take the time to talk over these issues with your roommate(s) as the year begins in order to avoid future difficulties. Please consult your Resident Advisor (RA) or Resident Director (RD) for help with this process.
Location
Residence Halls
Hours of Operation
Based on RA availability
Tips to Be a Great Roommate
Share Expectations
Misunderstood academic, living and social expectations are often a source of roommate conflict. Being open and honest while establishing your Roommate Agreement will provide a foundation for a healthy roommate relationship. Start thinking about things like:
- What time do I like to go to sleep/wake up?
- Do I prefer a clean area or am I ok with clutter?
- What room responsibilities would I be comfortable dividing?
Consider Lifestyles
Communicating your preferred lifestyle and being understanding and respectful of your roommate's lifestyle will prevent a lot of headaches. The majority of first-year students have part-time jobs and/or are part of a campus organization. This can create varying quiet and active times in the room, but discussing and respecting another's schedule creates healthy and open communications. Reflect on your personal life to prep for the roommate agreement:
- What do I do in my free time?
- What am I most looking forward to this year?
Give Quiet Time
It is important to consider your academic success, as well as your roommate's. Not communicating appropriate expectations of quiet times can cause frustrations and lead to an unpleasant living environment. When discussing your Roommate Agreement, consider topics like:
- When is it too late to be loud in the room?
- When should I use headphones?
- What are appropriate visitor days and hours?
Be a Great Teammate
Because sharing a space with others can be a growth experience, thinking about each other as a teammate can help establish common ground. A great teammate puts in effort to make a respectful living community and holds themselves accountable. To start the year well, consider the answers to these questions:
- What do I believe are important qualities of a roommate?
- How will I be a good roommate and teammate?
Reflect on Expectations
Lifestyles and personal expectations can impact how close you and your roommate become. Remember, great roommates are not always best friends and best friends are not always great roommates. A roommate can help create an environment that enhances your University experience. But, that can take collaboration and compromise. Your RAs will be available to answer any questions that you have, and to guide you through a successful year in your residence hall!
Room Change Process
If you feel a room change is necessary, the first step is to discuss it with your Resident Advisor (RA). They can guide you through the process and connect you with your Resident Director (RD) for further assistance. Room change requests are considered on a case-by-case basis, keeping in mind cleaning protocols and availability.
For any further inquiries, please contact the Campus Housing Office at ukhousing@uky.edu or call us at 859-257-1866. We’re here to ensure your residence hall experience is positive, comfortable, and conducive to your success at UK.