Several of you have written with concerns about how your should handle a difficult roommate issue at college. First, it is important to remember that it is your child’s issue, first and foremost. You should play the role of coach and mentor, but not get in the middle of the situation yourself. Communication directly between the students involved is always the best for short- and long-term success. However, if that still does not address the issues, then your child should turn next to the residence hall advisor, often referred to as the RA. This person is trained in handling disputes, elevating complaints, etc.

On the other side of the coin, some of you must have children who dealt with roommate issues in a positive manner, utilizing their own initiative to get solutions. Please share your stories and concerns, positive or negative, with the rest of us by clicking on Comments, thank you, Jim Boyle.