- In a university residence it is necessary to combine two somewhat contradictory requirements: On the one hand, the student population is hungry for social interactions that are as intense and exciting as possible, and that inevitably generates noise. On the other hand, the same population needs to carry out an intellectual activity that requires concentration, to follow some rhythms of attendance to classes and to pass tests and examinations. And in the line that goes from one of these poles to the other, each one is placed at a point that depends on the career he studies, his level of academic commitment and his personal biography. It is therefore basically impossible to lay down precise rules that apply at all times and without exception. We do, however, propose some guidelines that can serve as an initial starting point.
- It is recommended to preserve, as far as possible, silence and tranquillity in the housing areas, moving the noisiest activities and the most numerous meetings to the social areas.
- When you’re alone listening to music or watching movies, especially at night, try to wear headphones. On the contrary, if you need a sepulchral silence twenty-four hours a day to be able to concentrate on your studies, consider using earplugs.
- We recommend not to set the music too high when you are gathered in conversation. Loud music forces everyone to raise the volume of voice and, if there are several conversations, each group will raise its voice to make itself understood above the music and the other groups that in turn will raise their voice for the same reasons.
- When returning to the residence at night or in the early morning, keep in mind that there will be people sleeping who will have class the next day in the morning. Try to make as little noise as possible and not speak out loud. In addition to the obvious discomfort this can cause, it’s a pretty aggressive and selfish behaviour that people can interpret as others don’t care.
