Updated May 8, 2024
Got your housing and roommate assignment? Now is the time to get in touch with your roommate and get to know them before moving into your residential hall in August. If you’re hung up on how to start that initial convo, don’t worry—we’ve got your back!
Here are some tips on how to reach out and questions to ask your roommate. And if you’re really stuck, we’ve even included an email template for you to copy, paste and customize. You’re welcome.
Start with a (short and sweet) email
When you open your housing portal, you’ll receive your roommate’s Pacific email address, so make that your initial form of communication.
Briefly introduce yourself by sharing your major, your hometown and what you like to do for fun. If you want to get a bit more personal, share what music you’re into or what TV shows you’re bringing this summer.
Don’t worry about getting into the nitty gritty details of your habits and sleeping schedule just yet. After you arrive on campus, your RA (resident assistant) will work with you and your roommate to outline boundaries and expectations and develop a roommate agreement.
Say what you’re bringing
Perhaps the most important topic to square away is what each of you will bring to your room. You’ll only need one microwave or refrigerator, so it’s a good idea to coordinate as soon as possible.
You can initiate the conversation by volunteering to bring something or you can suggest setting up a phone call to plan what you’ll each bring.
Here are some tips for packing for life in the dorms.
Ask them questions
A great way to encourage open communication with your roommate and keep the conversation going is to ask them questions like these:
- Try asking about their hobbies
- What are they most excited for once school starts?
- Do they have any fun summer plans?
- What shows do they enjoy watching or books have they enjoyed reading?
Provide your contact info
Before signing your email, let your roommate know the best way to stay in touch with you. Consider giving them your cell phone number so you can text about room supplies or any questions you might have. You can also give out your social media handles to stay in touch over the summer.
Try not to give into the urge to stalk your roommate’s social accounts (but, if you can’t resist, just remember not to base your opinion on them solely on their Instagram feed)!
Considering meeting up face-to-face
Getting to know your new roommate over the summer can help you feel more comfortable with each other when school starts. Messaging online is a great start but meeting up in person for coffee or lunch is even better. Or, if you live too far from each other to do that, set up a Zoom or FaceTime chat. You’re likely having a lot of the same thoughts and questions about starting college, so you’ll have plenty to talk about!
Just be yourself
Cheesy, we know, but seriously—just be authentic and kind and you’ll make a great first impression. If you’re nervous, chances are your roommate is just as stressed as you are and will be glad you made the first move.
Email template
Iif you’re still not sure how to phrase things, we’ve put together a short template for you—just don’t forget to fill in the blanks before sending!
Hi (roommate name),
My name is (your name). I just checked my housing assignment from Pacific and it looks like we’ll be roommates for the next school year!
Here’s a bit about me: I’m a (your major) major from (your hometown). In my free time, I love listening to (your favorite music) and (an activity you enjoy) with my friends. What are some of your hobbies?
My number is (your phone number). Feel free to text me so we can get to know each other and coordinate on who is bringing what for the dorm. I’d also love to get together for coffee or something!
Looking forward to meeting you,
(your name)
P.S. Feel free to follow me on Instagram and TikTok! My handles are (your handles).
If you have any questions about living on campus, on campus, reach out to our Residential Life and Housing team at iamhome@pacific.edu or 209.946.2331. And don’t forget to sign your housing agreement!