<p>Bucknell does match up roommates based upon a detailed questionnaire regarding lifestyle issues - for example sleeping patterns, neat or messy, studying in the room, etc. but nothing I recall related to religious preferences. I know some colleges will let you preselect a roommate (maybe a hometown high school friend who is also Catholic) but Bucknell doesn’t do this. They encourage new friendships from day 1 of Orientation and usually within a few weeks the hallmates have become quite close. I do remember on the questionnaire they ask if the kids prefer single/double/triple rooms. My son was on a freshman hall with all three room configurations - maybe your son would feel more comfortable in a single where he could have the social benefits of dorm life but can go back to his room and shut the door when he needs to study or if things get too boisterous on the hall:-)
As morrismm stated there is also Substance Free/Wellness Housing available which will eliminate any potential roommates who like to drink and party a lot. In addition Bucknell has a very active Catholic Campus Ministry(CCM) based in the Newman House, a “home away from home” for Bucknell’s Catholic students. CCM offers a wide variety of activities including discussion groups focusing on contemporary faith issues, daily Masses, retreats, community service projects, etc. It is a very welcoming, inclusive place where your son would undoubtedly meet many new friends.</p>