Student Affairs Gender-Inclusive Roommate Placement FAQ

Who can participate in the gender-inclusive roommate placement?

In short, any interested first-year is welcome to participate. Students opting into gender-inclusive placement hold a range of gender identities seeking an affirming roommate, are allies to the transgender community, or are looking for housing placement based on factors like organization or other aspects of their daily routines over gender-based placement.

How does Housing & Operations use the information that I share in the housing questionnaire and the gender-inclusive placement form to place me with a roommate?

In the housing questionnaire, students report information about their daily routines, including sleep, study, smoking, and organization habits. In the gender-inclusive placement form, students provide additional information about why they have opted into gender-inclusive placement, and share factors that they hope will have prompted a potential future roommate to do the same. Student Affairs staff will review responses to both sets of questions, and pair students based on the information shared.

Can I participate in gender-inclusive roommate placement if I do not identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community? 

Yes! We encourage anyone who is committed to promoting a safe and inclusive environment to opt in to this opportunity if they would like to do so. 

Will gender identity be considered as a factor for a gender-inclusive roommate pair?

Possibly. This depends on the information shared by students in the questionnaire. At its core, this opportunity does not prioritize matching students based on gender, but may take into account factors related to gender shared by participants.

How might my participation in gender-inclusive roommate placement be shared with students who are not participating? 

Students who choose to participate will be placed in rooms on gender-inclusive floors alongside students whose roommate pairings were made on the foundation of the sex/gender on record with the College. The College will not share which students are participating in gender-inclusive roommate placement. 

How might my participation in gender-inclusive roommate placement be shared with a parent/guardian, family member, or other community member who has a question?  

The College will not communicate directly with individuals other than you and your roommate regarding your roommate placement.

Where can I learn more about resources around identity at Amherst College?

The Office of Identity and Cultural Resources includes six identity-based centers that support your college experience and provide both educational and community engagement opportunities. Visit their website to explore more.