Share- Stronger sense of community.
- Easier to make connections with people in your residence.
- Physically closer to campus than off-campus living.
- Shorter commute time.
- Room and board costs can be more than living off campus.
- You are constantly surrounded only by students.
- You may feel that you can never get away.
- You have to share your bathroom and space with many people.
- You are more likely to be required to have a roommate.
- Most campuses close their residences over major breaks (e.g. Christmas, spring break) and over the summer months. For students who cannot or do not want to go home, finding temporary housing can be a challenge.
- Most college or university students with LD or ADHD do not have difficulty because of low intelligence. The challenges are structuring your life, and asking for the help you need.
- For some people, troubles with classwork and social lives could be alleviated by reaching out to other students with LD. The disability services office (DSO) will help you meet others in a similar situation, which can make a world of difference.
- The first few weeks on campus can be lonely. When you look around, it may seem that everyone is self-confident and socially successful. The reality is that everyone is having the same concerns. Contact the disability services office. Often support groups, study groups or social groups are organized for students registered at the DSO.
- Increased personal freedom can feel both wonderful and frightening. The strange environment, new people and timetables can create a sense of being on an emotional roller coaster. This is normal and to be expected.
- University classes are a great deal more difficult than high school classes. There are more reading assignments and the exams and essays cover a greater amount of material. You must take the initiative. If a class is missed, it is up to you to borrow lecture notes from someone who was present. If you are having difficulty with course work, you need to ask for help. Visit your DSO counsellor, sign up for academic skills training or a tutor.
- At the very beginning of the semester - within the first few days - sit down with your roommate and make an inventory of your habits and preferences: tidy or casual, stay up late or get up early, music preferences, study habits.
- Work out strategies to compromise.
- Addressing things that bother you while they are still new can help your roommate be aware of something he or she may not otherwise know.
- Respect your roommate’s belongings. Do not borrow or use anything without permission.
- Set up some ground rules early in the semester and divide housekeeping tasks evenly.
- Do not expect your roommate to be your friend. Roommates may work out satisfying living arrangements, but the reality is that each may have his or her own circle of friends.
