The Roommate Experience One of the most anticipated events for college students is meeting and living with their new roommate. It could be one of the most significant relationships you will establish at USC, not only for this year, but also throughout your life. Living with another student is an exciting opportunity to share and learn about where you both come from. Open and honest communication and treating each other with respect are essential for successfully living with others. In the emerging global community, learning to live with people from different backgrounds is an essential part of your education.
Different students have different expectations regarding roommate relationships.
Some people are looking for someone who is easy to live with, while others are looking for a new best friend. Sometimes it is easier to live with someone when you spend most of your time with other people. That is one reason to consider not rooming with a close friend from home. You might find your living situation better if you can speak freely about your individual complaints and habits with someone other than a good friend. New students coming to USC housing will be assigned a roommate based on gender, building assignment and preference for a smoking or nonsmoking space.