How does a college dorm room work?

After letting the college know you want on-campus housing, the school assigns you a room in a dorm or residence hall. Along with your room assignment, the school lets you know the names of your roommate(s) and the official move-in date. Sometimes assigned roommates may communicate before classes start and coordinate what optional room items (such as a small refrigerator or a microwave) each person plans to bring. After arriving and meeting your roommate(s), you each decide which bed you want. On move-in day, you’ll meet the resident assistant or RA. This person (usually a junior or senior) is there to answer questions about the room, the dorm, and the campus.