Residence Life Handbook

Tips for Living in Community

Living in Andersen Hall is an opportunity to build relationships, learn independence, and grow as part of a shared community. These tips can help you start the year strong.

Building a Positive Roommate Relationship

• Keep an open mind. Take time to get to know your roommate before making assumptions.

• Communicate early and often. If something is bothering you, address it respectfully and directly. Small concerns are easier to resolve when discussed early.

• Complete your Roommate Agreement. This conversation helps you set shared expectations about sleep schedules, guests, shared items, study time, and more.

• Be respectful of differences. Respect your roommate’s space, belongings, identity, routines, and boundaries.

• You don’t have to be best friends. A respectful and comfortable living environment is the goal.

If you need help navigating a conversation, your Resident Assistant (RA) is always available to support you.

Connect Beyond Your Room

Your roommate is just one part of your community. We encourage residents to meet others on their floor and throughout the building.

Residence Life hosts 60+ events each semester, including:

• Movie nights and game nights

• Karaoke and themed events

• Holiday celebrations and dinners

• Community-building and wellness programs

Attending events is one of the best ways to meet people and feel at home in Andersen Hall.

Personal Safety Tips

Residence Life and Security work together to maintain a safe community, but safety is a shared responsibility.

In the Residence Hall

• Always lock your room door when you leave and while you sleep.

• Do not prop open exterior or hallway doors.

• Do not share your keys, ID card, or access credentials.

• Never leave personal belongings unattended in common areas.

• Report anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe.

Around NYC

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially when using public transportation.

• Travel in pairs or groups when out late at night.

• Keep valuables secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

• Protect personal information, passwords, and financial details.

Living in a residence hall is a shared experience. Looking out for yourself and others helps create a safe, respectful, and welcoming community for everyone.