I would be annoyed with Admissions for putting you into an awkward position. I agree that you might be in a bad position either way. If the three others are all friends, you would almost certainly be left out, especially if you blocked their rooming with the person they wanted to room with. So I think I would level with them. Tell them that you were looking forward to rooming with them because they seemed like good people. And you would be happy to help them out if it doesn’t mean that you would be moving into the suite from hell. Tell them that you need information on the other roommates before you can make such a decision. If the other people seem okay, then you would be better off not rooming with this close-knit group (who probably all went to high school together and have a history you don’t share). But if the others seem odd, then you just have to say that you can’t do that. You were willing to make the effort, but not to subject yourself to a painful year. If they are at all reasonable, that is being as fair as you can be.

The first question would be, how did the other guy get your e-mail? that would give you a clue as to whether the other three people in your assigned room are already friends with this guy. Also, is this new guy does not want to live with that roommate, why would you? If there is trouble, just call the housing office and explain the situation. They will assist you and you will not have to make the decision.

Do NOT feel pressured to switch rooms just because you don’t want anybody to be mad at you. YOU are paying lots of money for this, so you should feel pressured into doing anything. If you don’t want to move, then don’t move. Be nice and respectful about it, but don’t move. After all, HE’S not making any sacrifices, he’s asking YOU to make the sacrifice. Besides, ya’ll are guys. It’s not like he’s going to hold a grudge forever.

Tell him you tried but admissions said no.