It may sound impossible to exchange a room in Danielsen Hall for one in the Student Residences at 10 Buick St. after housing selection, but don’t give up hope just yet.

Many students may find themselves living in second- or third-choice dorms after the room selection process comes to a close, but a solution does exist for those not satisfied with their living conditions next semester.

Formally known as “academic year room changes” – or “summer swap” – the process allows students to trade in the spot they receive during housing selection in exchange for a completely different room. Last summer, 701 students changed rooms using summer swap, Housing Director Marc Robillard said in an email.

“Spaces open up all over campus and all throughout the summer,” he said.

According to the Office of Housing website, there is no guarantee that any specific residence will be available, but some of the more popular residence halls – including 10 Buick St. – have had openings in previous years.

Room selection numbers for the process go in reverse order and begin with seniors. Students can indicate which residences they prefer to swap into on their applications and are offered rooms based on their preferences.

Applications will be available starting on May 3 and must be filled out in person at the Office of Housing. Each roommate fills out an application, specifically requesting to live with one another.

College of Arts and Sciences junior Frances Rabbitt used summer swap her sophomore year, trading a Sleeper Hall double for a single in Myles Standish Hall, she said.

“It is a great idea if you are not particular about who exactly you will be living with,” she said. “It is a good way to get into suite-style buildings and to get a single.”

Though Rabbitt said she was offered a room change in July, College of Communication sophomore Mitchell Swartz said he and his roommate were not offered a double in Myles through summer swap until early August.

“I was stressing all summer long,” he said. “I thought for sure we were going to end up in Warren again.”

According to the Office of Housing website, students are notified of available rooms by Aug. 20 through email or phone.

College of Communication sophomore Leslie Hanna said she had hoped to move from Warren Towers into Myles Standish Hall, but never received a phone call.

Hanna said while she would try summer swap again because “it seems like that last glimmer of hope to grab onto,” she wished the Office of Housing would send a letter to students who do not receive room changes.

Students can also opt to change rooms in the fall through direct swaps or pull-ins. Direct swaps allow students to switch rooms with another student, while pull-ins fill vacancies when students directly invite another student into their rooms.