College is an excellent time for young adults to grow, in and out of class. Finding and living with a roommate fosters interpersonal skills, responsibility, and other key life skills they’ll use for the rest of their lives. As a parent or guarantor, you can provide support during the process to set your child up for success.
If you are wondering how to find a college roommate who is a dependable match for your child, read on for our five best tips.
#1: List Deal breakers and Dream Scenarios
You can help your child think through what traits and characteristics make a good roommate. Ask key questions like:
- Are you an early bird or night owl?
- Are you looking for a new friend or just a roommate?
- Do you want to live with a social butterfly or an introvert?
- Would you mind a messy person, or do you prefer someone who is tidy?
- When studying, do you require complete silence, or are you comfortable with some background noise?
#2: Reach out to Your Network
Now that you know who you’re looking for, contact friends, family, and colleagues to see if they know a student who is attending the same university. Personal connections can make it easier for your child and the roommate to find shared interests. Parents or guarantors can also better vet the character and background of prospective roommates.
#3: Contact the University
If you can’t find a roommate for your college student through people you know, the University of Miami may help you explore other options. Many institutions host online portals or in-person college roommate finder events to help match roommates for off-campus living. They can also help suggest popular apps or approved social media groups designed for students looking for roommates.
#4: Schedule a Meet and Greet
Ask prospective roommates and their families out to dinner, coffee, or a Zoom chat so that everyone can get to know one another. Use this time to gauge chemistry between the families and to ask any questions you or your child might have about logistics and preferences.
#5: Make Sure Both Sides Are Agreed
It’s important to enter into a roommate situation with clear expectations. Parents and guarantors of both roommates can work together to ensure that everyone is aligned on the plan for moving forward, with frank discussions about what is expected in terms of the lease and the responsibilities of all parties.
Laying the Foundation for a Positive College Roommate Experience
A great roommate can help make the college experience memorable, valuable, and fun. Parents can play a proactive role in finding and supporting their child when looking for a roommate and navigating the new challenges and opportunities that go along with it. With a little preparation and a lot of love, you can help your child thrive in school and in life.
Once they find a match they love, schedule a tour at Cloisters Miami to see what floor plan is best for them.