Portland State Vanguard

Do’s:
- Keep your space clean: Your side of the room is your side to live in! This means it’s your responsibility to decorate and maintain it. Don’t let the mess pile up, be respectful to your new roommate and keep it clean. Make sure to throw out old food, clean the shared spaces and limit the clutter. If you’re having a tough time keeping your space tidy, there’s a few systems you can implement to help things run smoother. For example, you can try a nightly 5-minute declutter before bed; throw out trash, put clothes in the hamper and clear your desk. If that doesn’t work, try the 20/10 method: 20 minutes of cleaning, followed by a 10 minute break, repeating until the mess is managed. Every small bit helps to prevent a larger clean up. In communal spaces, like bathrooms and kitchen, make sure to split chores with your roommate. Manage the trash daily and regularly clean drains and floors in order to prevent pile ups, attracting bugs or creating a stench. Set clear cleanliness expectations with room or suite mates, and reach out to your RA if you need help. 

Dont’s:
- Steal food from your roommate: Just don’t do it. They will hate you forever. It’s plain rude, and creates unnecessary anger. No PopTart is worth destroying your relationship with your roommate. Always make a plan with your roommate about shared food (preferably in your roommate contract) and politely ask before taking something. Never touch food that has a sticky note with the roommate’s name on it. If you’re hungry, go to Victor’s Dining Hall in Ondine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Or, check out the Smallwood Food Pantry in Smith Memorial Student Union for free snacks and groceries.  If your roommate keeps stealing your food, it’s important that you talk to them and establish firm boundaries. If the stealing continues, report it to the RA. 

Find the full list on our website or find our Orientation Guide in print around campus! 🗞️

Written by Olivia Hendry Young and Grace Peterson
Photo by Olivia Hendry Young