Healthy Relationships
Whether romantic, platonic, familial, or professional, relationships play an important role in our lives. Especially in college, you may be building new relationships, navigating challenging ones, or figuring out what a healthy connection looks like for you. A healthy relationship of any kind is one where both people feel respected, safe, heard, valued, and are able to be themselves. Relationships aren't always perfect, but they are built on mutual trust, honest communication, and a willingness to grow.
Core elements of a healthy relationship include:
- Communication: You can talk openly and honestly, even when things are hard. You listen to each other without judgement.
- Boundaries: Each person feels comfortable setting limits and having them respected- whether it's about time, space, or physical and emotional closeness.
- Mutual support: You encourage each other's goals and growth without trying to control or "fix" each other.
- Equality: Power is balanced; no one dominates or makes all the decisions.
- Consent: All forms of physical, sexual, and emotional connection are mutual and enthusiastic. Consent is ongoing and can be withdrawn at anytime.
On the other hand, unhealthy and abusive relationships can leave you feeling afraid, isolated, or like you can't be yourself. Abuse isn't always physical- it can be emotional, verbal, digital, financial, or sexual. Unhealthy relationships can look like:
- Constant criticism or put-downs
- Pressure to do things you're not comfortable with
- Jealousy or possessiveness
- Ignoring your boundaries
You Deserve Respect
You deserve to be in a relationship where you feel safe, supported, and seen. If you ever feel unsure about a relationship or want to talk to someone confidentially, there are people on campus who are here for you. These include resources like Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services, the EmPOWER Center, our Title IX Office, and the CMC Advocates. The Dean of Students Office and your RAs are also great resources for support.
Relationships in College
College introduces many unique relationships that often require growing together, communicating honestly, and navigating challenges with respect.
Roommate Relationships
Sharing your living space- often with someone you've never met before- can be exciting, awkward, and challenging. A strong roommate relationship doesn't require you to be best friends, but should be about mutual respect and coexisting peacefully. Below are some tips for cultivating healthy relationships with roommates:
- Set expectations early: Talk about cleaning responsibilities, sleep schedules, visitors, noise, and shared items. Having these conversations at the start of the year can help reduce tensions later on.
- Communicate openly: Don't let frustrations simmer- address concerns early with kindness and clarity.
- Respect privacy: Everyone needs alone time or space to recharge. If your roommate asks for privacy- whether it's to take a phone call, study in peace, or just have some alone time- do your best to honor that request without taking it personally. Likewise, avoid using your roommate's belongings without permission.
- Use your RA for support: If conflict escalates or you just need advice on a roommate-specific issue, don't hesitate to ask your RA. They're here for you!
Academic Relationships
Relationships built with professors, advisors, and staff are professional relationships that can often lead to supportive mentorships. Some tips to cultivate healthy relationships with professional staff and faculty include:
- Practice professionalism: Be on time to meetings, follow through with responsibilities, and communicate respectfully.
- Ask for help: CMC's faculty and staff members are here to help. Office hours are a great place to build connection and seek support. Don't hesitate to email your professor, academic, advisor, or another member of the College to set up a time to talk when you have questions or need help.
- Respect boundaries: Faculty and staff have their own schedules and responsibilities outside campus. While it's important to reach out with questions or concerns, be mindful of timing and context. Emails sent on weekends or late at night may not receive an immediate response, and catching someone as they're heading out the door may not be the best moment for a conversation. It's important to approach interactions with consideration and professionalism.
Group Projects and Teamwork
Collaboration is a huge part of college, whether in class, clubs, or sports. To build strong group dynamics:
- Define roles early: Know who is doing what and when tasks are due.
- Hold yourself accountable: Follow through with your tasks and own up when you make a mistake.
- Address conflict directly: If someone isn't participating or communication breaks down, reach out with curiosity not blame. Use "I" statements to express your concern.
- Welcome different perspectives: Respect and celebrate diversity in all forms. If you don't agree with what someone said, challenge the idea not the person. This can help cultivate healthier communication during disagreements.
At the heart of any healthy relationship is mutual respect, open communication, and trust. Whether you're building relationships, navigating roommate dynamics, collaborating with classmates and faculty, or finding romantic interests, it's important to recognize and honor both your own wants/needs and those of others. By investing time and care into how you relate to others, you can help build a community where everyone thrives.
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