We strongly suggest you contact your roommate(s) before you arrive at Temple University. There are many things to discuss and coordinate, and living with a new person or group of people in a new place can present challenges. You and your roommates may become friends right away, or it may take some time. Getting a head start on that relationship can make things easier in late August.
8 Reasons to Contact Your Roommate Before Move-In
6 Habits to Follow for a Successful First Year wtih Your Roommate
Conversation Starters
The following are a few conversation starters that are helpful when you contact your new roommate(s):
About You
- hometown, family life and friends
- favorite school activities
- intended major at Temple
- whether you’re a morning person or a night owl
- clean or cluttered
- music, movie and TV preferences
- willingness to loan things (such as computers, clothes, a car or money)
- feelings about overnight guests
- if you’re working during college
- what you’re like when you’re feeling down
- what amuses and annoys you
- how you like to relax
- what you’re like when you first meet people
Roommates will not agree on everything, and that is okay. Having a basic understanding of each other's needs helps build a foundation for a good year together. In fact, the university encourages residents to complete a roommate agreement within the first few days of moving on campus in an effort to establish a mutual consideration of roommate preferences. The Resident Assistants (RAs) on your hall may also help you and your roommates with the transition to university life. RAs are students who live with you in the residence halls at Temple and are trained to assist roommates with concerns or conflicts.
Despite all this preparation, keep in mind that sometimes room or roommate assignments change from your initial assignment through Move-in Weekend because of cancellations. Up-to-date assignments and roommate information is available on MyHousing. We encourage you to check the site throughout the summer for any changes.