Chapter 1 – Roomcats & Other Critters

Dorm residents are a lot like cats: independent creatures, enjoying the simple things in life – food and sleep. Felines are typically territorial. They take awhile to get used to each other, and each has a unique set of personality traits such as being feisty, lazy, uptight, playful, scheduled, affectionate, or rambunctious. They’re low maintenance since they bathe themselves and find the litter box. They enjoy the comforts and familiarity of home. You are like a cat. You have your own distinctions. And whatever your personality, you are about to live with another cat. There will be territorial upsets as you learn to live with someone you may have never met. Cat worlds collide!

There are various other critters out there: cowboys, athletes, geeks, aliens, freaks, bookworms, and clowns. Is it reality TV? Nope, just reality! You will never see so many people with such different values, friends, ideologies, grammar, backgrounds, and clothing styles. The only thing they have in common is that they are all residents in your dorm – all living within a few feet of each other.

Topics covered in this chapter:

* Choosing a roomcat: going “potluck” vs. familiar friend
* Fifteen things that cause roomcat friction

“Lack of communication is caused by an overdesire to accommodate the other. Everybody thinks he is easy to live with and wants to prove that he is. Open communication lines early. Realize that the little quirk you deal with the first night will be there all year.” – Matt, University of Virginia

“Be understanding and know that you have to give and take. Try to be cooperative and deal with problems when they first come about.” – Jaclyn, Texas Tech University

Buy Chapter 1 – Roomcats & Other Critters

Continue to Chapter 2 – Dorm Design