Ask the R.A. Archive

I don't want to drink with my friends, but I still want to hang out. How can I play it cool and have fun with them without drinking?

My friends and I want to go away for spring break, but we can't afford a big vacation. Any suggestions?

Do you have any creative (read: low-budget) ideas for what to do on Valentine's Day?

When going out on a cold night, I never want to deal with my coat once I get to my destination. Any tricks you’ve seen other students use?

I made a new year’s resolution to get fit and eat more healthfully, and I’ve already fallen off my plan. Do you have any advice for how I can jump back in and stay on board?

I’m having a really hard time with the whole studying process. I can’t seem to find the time, and when I do buckle down, I can’t concentrate. What’s my problem?

My grades weren’t all that good last semester. How can I make sure I'll do better this time?

I think I might lose a little academic momentum over break. Do you have any suggestions for how to get back into the swing of things … seamlessly?

My roommate seems kind of down in the dumps, and I don’t know how to deal with it. Is there anything I can do for him?

I haven’t been feeling well lately. How do I know if I’m sick enough to miss class?

Occasionally, I notice doors left open around my building. How can I protect myself and my possessions on campus?

I’m feeling really burned out with schoolwork and totally unmotivated to get into the social scene. How can I get more pumped?

I’m working on a paper and cribbed a few lines from a book I was using as a reference. Does that count as plagiarism?

One of my professors clearly does not like me. Do I have any recourse if he gives me an unfair grade?

Is it too late for me to drop a course? I seriously want out of this one class.

I need way more space in my room. Should I loft my bed?

What am I supposed to do with myself when I’m sexiled from my room?

It seems there aren’t enough hours in the day to do my assigned reading. Any advice?

I hate my roommate! Is there any way I can move?

Do college kids dress up for Halloween, or is that lame?

What are some ways I can conserve energy at school?

I am really overwhelmed by my classes. Can I just drop one, or am I required to take a minimum number of classes?

Help! How can I combat noise in the hall when I need to study and sleep?

My first semester has been pretty rough, and I’m beginning to think this school might not be right for me. Should I consider a transfer?

I was busted for breaking a dorm rule. No one was hurt or anything like that, but it’s been alleged that I had some questionable paraphernalia. Now I think I’m in for it. How do I keep from getting into deeper trouble?

How does hooking up work in college -- does everyone just have sex?

Is it best to bring more or less stuff to school? How can I decide what to bring and what to leave?

I’m considering living in a co-ed dorm. Is it hard to get used to?

When should I buy my textbooks? Is the college bookstore the best place to purchase them?

I’m on a meal plan, but am I allowed to cook in my room if I want to?

What should I do about dirty laundry when I’m at school? I’ve never even been to a laundromat.

Do I have to choose my major before leaving for school or can that wait until I get settled in? I have too much to think about right now!

What are some things I can’t have in my room?

What's the deal with the dining hall?

I feel like I have way too much anxiety about this, but how can I prepare for move-in day?