Dear Sarah,

Personalities, appear to range on a continuum from shy and withdrawn, to dramatic and erratic. The dramatic and erratic types, think the whole world revolves around them, and are somewhat oblivious, to the impact they have on those in their proximity. They are often self involved, and insensitive to the wants and needs of others.

You can help your roommate, and yourself, by engaging her periodically in conversations, that are all about her, i.e., be her friend, and listen, even if you may find it uncomfortable. Let her get it all out, then close the session; don't let it go on indefinitely. Start one of your assignments, go to class, go to tennis practice, or lunch, whatever the case may be.

If she attempts, to continue to talk about herself, kindly and gently, ask her if it can wait until sometime the following day. Schedule a definite time between a couple of your classes, or practices, in order to limit the session. However, keep it casual, don't make it like an appointment. Allowing her to ramble on, ad infinitum, doesn't help her, and it harms you.

The challenge, your roommate presents, is a great opportunity to hone your social skills.

Larry