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Teachable Moments: Roommates

TRANSCRIPT:

For South Carolina Public Radio, I’m Dr. Rénard Harris from the College of Charleston. This is Teachable Moments, a minute of education for students and parents.   

Learning to live with a roommate is one of the biggest adjustments for college students. Sharing a dorm room, whether it’s with a friend from high school or someone new, requires communication and compromise. One roommate might be an early bird while the other is a night owl. One enjoys listening to loud music while the other prefers a quiet place to study.

Parents can encourage their kids to set realistic expectations. They can also resist the urge to step in and solve every issue. Learning to navigate uncomfortable conversations is a part of growing up. A successful roommate relationship is about creating a space where everyone feels at home.

For the College of Charleston, I’m Dr. Rénard Harris.

Rénard Harris is an Associate Professor of Management in the School of Business at the College of Charleston (2022-present). He teaches courses in Leadership and courses in Managing Diversity. His leadership course focuses on the dynamics of effective leadership, positive influence, and clear vision. His Managing Diversity course focuses on exploring culture, experiences, and identity as asset and resource of those less heard and less seen.