Finding a Housemate
Often times, it is too expensive to live by yourself. Having a housemate can cut costs dramatically while still keeping you connected to campus events and activities.
Be sure to post about yourself and your housing interests on our Off Campus Housing Site . If you work through an agent, be sure to let them know a little about yourself, so they can help you match with other housemates you will likely get along with!
How Do I Choose and Live With a Housemate?
Living with a housemate can be one of the most rewarding experiences of graduate school. The key to living with someone is to remember that everyone has the right to live in a safe, clean and healthy situation that allows them to pursue academic and personal endeavors. With that in mind, we have included some suggestions in hopes that your experience leads to a successful, healthy housemate relationship.
Prior to Arrival
- Take the time to find a housemate with whom you will be compatible.
- Talk two to three times over the phone, by email or via Facebook before meeting in person.
- Be honest and open about your needs, concerns and expectations.
- Get to know the person before passing judgment.
- Share basic information with one another, including hobbies, family, program and interests.
Upon Arrival
- Complete a housemate agreement (accessible pdf).
- Discuss how you should set up the apartment and then do it together.
- Discuss which items will be shared, i.e., food, computer, appliances, printer.
- When a problem arises, talk about it with that person first.
- Establish guidelines about cleanliness, cooking and housework; guests, study time, work schedules, privacy, celebrations/parties; bills, rent, food, phone and payment processes.
Living with someone from a different region of your country or an entirely different country can be an extremely rewarding experience. Yet, challenges exist. Different communities have different concepts of personal space, ownership, communal space and property, food, noise, money, etc. It is important that you are as direct and patient as possible to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.