Syracuse University announced earlier this week that next fall a new gender-neutral housing program will begin. We know what you’re thinking, “Tons of college campuses across the United States provide gender-neutral dormitories, what makes this decision so different?” Well, we’re glad you asked.
In Fall 2010, the pilot program will offer not only gender-neutral dormitories, but also gender-neutral suites. If they prefer, Syracuse students can choose to live with a member of the opposite sex. That’s right, we said it. Men and women will now have the option of living with one another in the dorms, an option normally available through off-campus housing only.
While some may question if this is a smart idea, others feel it’s about time. A report done by Syracuse.com and the Daily Orange say the decision was made not to appease students wanting to live with his/her significant other, but in an attempt to accommodate students of the LGBT community, and best friends of the opposite sex. Syracuse certainly is not the first University to make this step. Last year, The Boston Globe listed several colleges now offering gender-neutral housing and their reasons behind it. One Boston Globe respondent said, “It’s about being more inclusive, and it’s about keeping pace with the times.”
Whether living with your best gal pal or rooming with the guy from Psych 101, we believe that along with creating a roommate agreement the same rules still apply:
1. Be supportive of your roommate.
2. Be aware of the impact that your behavior has on your roommates feelings.
3. Have compassion for your roommate’s mistakes and weaknesses.
4. Avoid being selfish and self-centered.
5. Avoid neglecting your relationship with your roommate.
If you want to earn yourself a spot on the “Roommates Who Rock” Wall of Fame, following those tips could help. We want to know what you think, would you live with a roommate of the opposite sex?
