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=The Naked Roommate and 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into at College= The Naked Roommate :And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College, by Harlan Cohen, is a guide book on how to live in college. It has sold over 125,000 copies and is a New York Times Bestseller, making it the best selling college life guide. The book is the “behind the scenes look at EVERYTHING you need to know about college.” In addition, it offers advice on the many problems that students may run into.

Summary
Before You Get to Campus

Before students arrive on their college campus, Cohen suggests that it would be beneficial to attend an orientation program, whether that is in the spring/summer/or right before arriving to campus. Campus tours provide an understanding to where places are around campus, and gives lots of information about the school the student will be attending. He also suggests that students should follow the campus’ Twitter feed in order to be up to date on all of the college’s activities and programs, as well as a medium to see current pictures of the campus. A visit to the Student Activities Office on the website or the campus office will allow students to find a list of the organizations and clubs the school offers. Visiting the college’s website is also a good way to find lots of valuable information on the different facets of the campus, including activities, classes, and campus layout. Cohen also recommends connecting with alumni of the student’s high school that already go to this college. This connection is a great resource when needing questions answered honestly. Before arriving on campus Cohen says that students should contact their future roommates. This is a sure way to avoid duplications on move in day and can establish a relationship. In addition, when packing, keep in mind that dorm rooms are usually cramped and non necessities can be sent in the mail if need be. Cohen also encourages students to put their names on valuables, this will lower the chances of items being stolen or mixed up by others living in the residence hall. Lastly, students should discuss with their parents how often one will keep in touch ensures a smoother transition from living at home to college life.

Residence Halls

Cohen declares that a big part of the adjustment to college is living in dorms. Since this affects a college student’s life, he says that it is important for students to do some research before choosing a dorm, since all dorms are different, such as single sex versus co ed, or suite style versus hall style. He urges students not to let their parents pick their residence hall or roommate, since college is the student’s experience, not the parent’s. When living in residence halls, Cohen is adamant that it is important to stay social and open to meeting new people. One way to do this is by leaving the door to one’s room open, but remembering to lock the door whenever one is not there, because no matter how safe the floor is, theft does happen. In addition, students can stay connected to their interests by talking to the Residence Assistant in the dorm to get to know them and to also stay on top of all activities on campus that the student may be interested in taking part in. When speaking to the residence assistant, Cohen suggests that students discuss rules and guidelines that are in place on the hall, to ensure an enjoyable and educated living experience.

Roommates

Cohen says that having a roommate, who is oftentimes a complete stranger, is a major adjustment for many incoming college students. It may seem logical to be roommates with a friend from home, but Cohen says that this decision can often turn out to be disastrous. He points out that when people are friends in High School, they are not forced to live together and be together every single day and night. Cohen states that this increase in time spent together can possibly lead to a really bad roommate experience and a lost friendship. Upon arriving on campus, Cohen believes that it is important for roommates to discuss the ground rules for the room, whether they know each other well or not. He recommends that this discussion covers topics such as sleeping schedules, allowing friends in the room, and how to keep the room clean. Roommates must realize that they will have to make compromises with each other and respect how they both want to live. If issues begin to arise, Cohen urges that they be addressed quickly and both roommates will need to find a common ground. A common issue that Cohen brings up is what to do when one of the roommates has a significant other. He says that students should not be afraid to talk to their roommate in order to come to a conclusion on how often the significant other can hangout and/or sleep in the room. One roommate possibly stealing from the other is a major issue that Cohen says should be discussed right away if suspicions arise. He acknowledges that tt may be awkward and scary to bring this topic up to a roommate, especially if they do not know each other well. However, Cohen believes it is necessary that this issue is discussed as soon as possible before it can become an even bigger problem.

Finding Friends

Cohen says that one of the most difficult parts of going to college for students is finding a new group of friends and people to spend time with. Some students may have had the same friends since they were toddlers and have not needed to branch out and make new friends in a long time. Though this may seem daunting, Cohen ensures that it is actually an exciting opportunity to start fresh and get rid of a reputation that might have followed the student throughout high school. He urges students not to be afraid to approach new people wherever they go during college; everyone is looking to meet friends, so taking a risk talking to someone new can really pay off. It takes time to make new friendships, so Cohen advises that students not to put too much pressure on their friendships because it will happen in time. Cohen also states that it is important for students to remember not to judge others too quickly and not to judge others based on outside appearances. This will only narrow the student’s friendship opportunities and limit the number of people they can meet and learn from.

Getting Involved on Campus

Cohen believes that one of the easiest ways for students to enjoy their time in college is getting involved on campus. He states that Involvement in clubs and activities help students meet new people, manage their time, learn about new things, and stay active. While students may be concerned that they will not find a club that they like, Cohen claims there is a club for everyone. In addition, he points out that most colleges allow students to start new clubs if there is an activity that is not already supported on campus. Cohen recommends that students get involved sooner rather than later. The faster they join organizations the more time they will have to find their place and figure out which organizations they enjoy most. He states that clubs or intramural sports are a great way to get the competitive aspect of high school sports without the time commitment of varsity college sports. If sports are not of interest, Cohen advises that students can look into religious organizations, as most campuses have a plethora of multi-faith activities and events. He also points out that most colleges also have organizations that sponsor off campus trips. This is a cheap and convenient way to see new areas with friends. Cohen also mentions that students can also look into activities that will further their major, or let them explore their interest in multiple majors. In conclusion, Cohen thinks that campus organizations are a great and inexpensive way to meet new people, learn new things, and explore one’s campus.

Life Inside the Classroom

Cohen asserts College classes can be difficult and very different from the High School workload. In order to reduce stress, Cohen suggests that students stay organized with a planner, calendar, and planning ahead. He also states that students should manage their time by figuring out which readings are necessary and which ones aren't, and they also should not allow assignments to pile up and become hard to manage. Cohen suggests that students should avoid using technology during classes because it helps them stay focused and fully attentive. Skipping class can cause one to fall behind; and Cohen says that it would be wise not to make that a habit. Cohen strongly recommends that students take full advantage of the services that their college offers. Most college campuses provide tutoring services for specific classes; if students are falling behind this could be a good tool to utilize. In addition, attending office hours can be a good way for students to get to know their professors and better understand their expectations on assignments. Cohen warns that some professors will not find it necessary to inform students about an upcoming assignment if it is posted on the syllabus, so students should always take the syllabus seriously. Cohen believes that sitting in the front of the classroom can also be beneficial to learning, by encouraging students to be more engaged and in a position to ask questions. Cohen points out that students do not have to declare their major right way, so there is no reason to stress about it. Most colleges do not need students to declare until the second semester of their sophomore year. However, he does suggest that students should utilize their advisors in order to ensure that they are being guided in the right direction when involving their major choice and class selection.

Dating and Relationships

In this section, Cohen tackles the topic of college relationships. College is a place where dating opportunities are greatly increased. Despite the increased exposure to the opposite gender, he points out that there are people who decide to stay in their High School relationships even if they are going to different schools. Before deciding to stay committed to a significant other, Cohen states that students must realize that long distance relationships require more time and effort than they can imagine. If someone is in a long distance relationship, Cohen recommends that they make sure that they are still getting the complete college experience. This includes meeting new people and doing new things. He is adamant in saying that students should not put all of their time into their long distance relationship. When someone is going into college single, Cohen thinks they should be open and tell someone if they have an interest in them. He adds that it is not smart to live on should haves because it will lead to living with a lot of regret. Another thing Cohen says to watch out for is having relationships with people who live on your hall. If this relationship does not work out then it can become very awkward and uncomfortable if you are seeing them every single day.

Drinking On Campus

Cohen points out that alcohol will be far more present on nearly every college campus than it was in High School. Drinking alcohol excessively can often lead to many issues. According to Cohen, an important rule to abide by with drinking is to not allow it to interfere with your schoolwork. Students have to be able to balance their social life and school, and should always put their schoolwork above drinking. Additionally, he states that students should realize that they do not have to drink upon arriving in college. It is not mandatory and there are many people who do not drink at all. If someone does decide to drink, Cohen says that he/she should make sure that they are making responsible decisions. He also advises to always try to keep a steady pace and not to drink too much at one time. In addition, Cohen believes students need to make sure to always keep an eye on their drinks and know what they are putting into their bodies. Students should always keep their drinks in sight so people do not try to put anything into it. While under the influence of alcohol, Cohen advises that one should make sure that he/she are making smart decisions that they will not regret the next day. He adds that after a night of drinking, students should always make sure to stay hydrated to avoid further issues.

Money, Laundry, and Cheap Eats

Harlan Cohen proclaims that among the reasons that life on campus is so different from life at home is the fact that students must learn to budget their money. Some students are given a different budget for college living, and other students are not given a budget at all. While college can be a financial burden, Cohen says that it does not need to cause the student unnecessary stress. Cohen urges students to always look into scholarships and grants on campus. He claims that money can usually be found if one looks hard enough, and most colleges have plenty of resources and counselors for students to talk to about budgeting their time and money. Cohen also brings up the possibility of students having an on campus job. He says that on campus jobs are (usually) easy, tax deductible, and non-commute employment. These are important resources for students to utilize. Other important financial tips that Cohen points out are to find used textbooks online and never to start a credit card as a college student. Cohen states that College is expensive and he has tools that can help students budget their money and not crack under the stress of the financial burden.

About the Author
Harlan Cohen is the author of six books, the first of which is titled “Campus Life Exposed; Advice From The Inside.” The most popular of these, “The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues” is a New York Times bestseller and is used as a textbook in over 100 colleges. Cohen attended Indiana University and started an advice column there, entitled “Help Me, Harlan!” His writing career started at Indiana University while he was writing for the college’s newspaper, Indiana Daily Student. When Cohen was 22 years old, his column was picked up by The New York Daily News. His column was then picked up by King Features Syndicate, through which it continues to be distributed. Harlan Cohen has spoken at over 400 college campuses, and continues to give lectures, speeches, and more at colleges and universities today.

Reception
Harlan Cohen’s book The Naked Roommate receives high regards in its review by The New York Times. Book Review editor Charles McGrath raved about the book's ability to offer a realistic view of college, while giving tips a parent would approve of. McGrath states “The Naked Roommate is more realistic and less judgmental. It doesn’t recommend excessive drinking, illegal drug-taking and random sexual hookups, but it recognizes that such things happen in college and offers sensible tips about what to do if you or your friends get in a jam.” McGrath compliments Cohen's ability to provide incoming college students with useful information about the real college experience. “The Naked Roommate also recognizes that not every student wants to unlock his educational potential — some just want to cruise through — and offers tips to do so.” The National Association for College Admission Counseling gives Harlan Cohen compliments on The Naked Roommate. They applaud his writing style when saying, “Cohen writes in such a way that the reader does not feel as though he or she is reading just another self help book.” The National Association for College Admissions Counseling also appreciates what Cohen chose to include. “Cohen utilizes stories from actual students, faculty and staff to carefully craft his fun and witty narratives and give real world examples for each chapter and section.” Better World Books sold