Hello,
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Human semen has a characteristic smell, but is neither an intense smell nor long lasting. What you have smelled is probably the smell of smegma (a collection of dead epithelial cells + bacteria). This varies in individuals. Some individuals secrete a lot of smegma results in more intense smell. Increased sweating (in the pubic area can make it worse).
So to answer your question - yes the smell varies (although the smell is not directly from the semen).
Semen can have more intense smell in case of infections like prostatitis. But his is less likely. Most likely your room mate had increased smegma and hence the smell.
Hope this clarifies.
Please feel free to ask followup questions.