Dorm Life & Roommate Communication
Having "The Conversation" with Your Roommate
What to Share
- Basic explanation: "I have Type 1 diabetes, which means my body doesn't make insulin"
- What they might notice: CGM alarms, insulin pump, checking blood sugar
- Low blood sugar signs: shakiness, confusion, irritability
- How they can help: offer juice/snacks if you're low, don't panic
- Emergency contacts: who to call if you're unresponsive
Dorm Room Essentials
- Mini fridge for insulin storage
- Backup supplies in waterproof container
- Emergency glucagon kit (labeled clearly)
- Snack drawer with easy-access glucose
- Charging station for CGM/pump receivers
- Medical ID bracelet (wear 24/7)
Setting Boundaries
- You don't have to answer every question about T1D
- It's okay to ask roommates not to eat your emergency snacks
- Request they keep volumes low during CGM alarms at night
- Share what level of involvement you're comfortable with
Campus Dining Strategies
Navigating Meal Plans & Dining Halls
Buffet-Style Dining
- Ask dining staff for nutrition information/labels
- Use measuring tools or visual estimates for portions
- Start with smaller portions, can always go back
- Build balanced plates: protein, carbs, vegetables
- Take photos of meals for carb counting practice
Late Night & Irregular Eating
- Keep shelf-stable snacks in your backpack
- Set reminders if you forget to eat when studying
- Know which campus eateries are open late
- Pre-dose insulin carefully for pizza/takeout
- Adjust basal rates for schedule changes
Alcohol Awareness & Safety
If you choose to drink, know the risks and safety strategies:
- Alcohol can cause delayed hypoglycemia (lows) hours later
- Never drink on an empty stomach—always eat carbs with alcohol
- Set alarms to check blood sugar before bed and during the night
- Tell friends about T1D—confusion from lows can look like intoxication
- Wear your medical ID and keep emergency supplies with you
- Consider a temporary basal rate reduction overnight
Academic Accommodations & Success
Register with Disability Services
Recommended Accommodations
- Testing: Extended time, breaks to check/treat blood sugar
- Classroom: Permission to eat/drink, use phone for CGM, leave as needed
- Attendance: Excused absences for medical appointments/emergencies
- Assignments: Extensions if hospitalized or experiencing severe highs/lows
- Housing: Private room or roommate matching, proximity to dining
Managing Blood Sugar During Tests
- Check blood sugar 30 minutes before exams
- Aim for slightly higher range (120-150 mg/dL) for focus
- Bring glucose tabs and water bottle
- Don't be afraid to use your accommodations
- Inform proctors about T1D needs beforehand
Finals Week Survival
- Stress raises blood sugar—check more frequently
- Don't skip meals even when cramming
- Get adequate sleep (impacts blood sugar control)
- Take study breaks to move and reset
- Have backup supplies in your study spots
Social Life & Mental Health
Building Your Support Network
Find Your People
- Look for campus T1D or chronic illness groups
- Connect with health services and counseling
- Join online college T1D communities
- Build friendships with people who "get it"
- Stay connected with family and home support
Mental Health Matters
- Diabetes burnout is real—seek help when needed
- Use campus counseling services (often free)
- Don't isolate yourself during tough times
- Practice stress management techniques
- Remember: taking care of your mental health IS taking care of your diabetes
Social Situations Made Easier
- Parties: Tell at least one friend about T1D, keep supplies with you
- Dating: Disclose when comfortable, educate partners as relationship develops
- Sports/Activities: Inform coaches, have glucose readily accessible
- Study Groups: Don't apologize for checking blood sugar or eating snacks
- Travel/Spring Break: Pack 2-3x the supplies you think you'll need
Emergency Preparedness
Create Your Emergency Plan
- Program campus safety number into your phone
- Share endocrinologist contact with health services
- Know location of nearest ER/urgent care
- Keep insurance card and medical ID on you always
- Have backup insulin and supplies in multiple locations
- Create ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts in your phone
Supply Management
- Set up mail-order prescriptions to campus address
- Order refills 2 weeks before running out
- Keep supply inventory checklist
- Store backup supplies at health center if possible
Healthcare Continuity
- Schedule endo appointments during breaks
- Use telehealth for check-ins during semester
- Know insurance coverage in your college town
- Build relationship with campus health providers