Page 274 - Keys to College Success

get creative

REWRITE AN EXPERIENCE OF CONFLICT

Complete the following on paper or in digital format.
Think of a time when you had a conflict with someone, either one-on-one or in a group setting, and there were negative
effects for you and perhaps for others as well.
1. Brief y describe what happened.
2. Thinking about what you’ve read, and what you know now, ponder what you could have done differently, and
generate two or three ideas about how the situation could have unfolded.
3. Of the ones you’ve written, choose the one that you think would have been most helpful and describe it in more
detail, including information about how all parties would benef t.
4. Finally, in one sentence, describe the essence of the lesson you learned from this interaction.

Be open minded. Your roommate may introduce you to a new culture, religion,
lifestyle, music, food, or ideas. Take in what’s new and use it to learn and to broaden
your horizons.

Not every roommate relationship is sunny, of course. Some roommates will have
minor problems, and some major conflicts. When you have a problem with a roommate,
consider talking with him or her directly at first. If that doesn’t work, or if you don’t feel
comfortable going to your roommate, have a conversation with your RA. He or she may
then want to facilitate a conversation involving the roommate as well. If you can’t resolve
the conflict to anyone’s satisfaction, consult with your RA about how to switch rooms.
This may take some time and create negative feelings, so use it as a last resort.

talk risk and reward . . .

Risk asking tough questions to be rewarded with new insights. Use the following to inspire
discussion with classmates, in person or online.
■ How inclined are you to risk reaching out to people when you need help with
academics, health issues, or personal problems? Give yourself a percentage (“I
am inclined to seek help 30% of the time.”). Would you like to increase your
percentage? Why or why not? What is the risk of not seeking help?
■ Do you feel that getting involved in nonacademic organizations and activities
helps or hinders students? Or maybe both? Give specific examples to back up
your opinion. How should students get involved so that it won’t get in the way
of academic achievement?
CONSIDER THE CASE: When students begin college, many react against their upbringing
or home environment, as Georgina did when she experienced increased freedom and
independence as a freshman. What defined your upbringing and home environment
during high school? What might you be reacting against now, and what is the result of
your action? What might you want to retain, and for what reward?

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