If you are a college student who moved away from home like me, chances are that you have had a roommate. It may have been your freshman year in a dorm room, or in an apartment with a few friends as you get your feet on the ground. No matter the reason, there is something so invigorating about moving out of your parents' house and taking on different things while living with someone new who you can share those experiences with.
If you decide to have roommates, whether it be your best friends from high school, or a random match that you hope works out for the best--fingers crossed--then it is inevitable that they are going to learn a great deal about you. If you are trying to determine how well your roommates really know you, then here are a few tell-tale signs:
1. They know where to find you on a Friday night.
Your roommates know how you will be spending your spare time when the weekend rolls around. Whether you're a big fan of staying in and binge-watching HGTV like me, or you will be going out to party and dance all night, your roommates know what to expect of you.
2. They know what you're eating for dinner.
Let's get real, your roommates know that your diet is an even distribution of pizza and grilled cheese sandwiches. Chances are they will be going with you to the grocery store, ready to grab the all same things that you've been buying for consecutive weeks.
3. They know when you're annoyed.
It is inevitable that you will butt heads with your roommates at some point. No matter the issue, it is best when they know your limits.
4. They know when to give you space.
It is easy to move in with someone and be in a "honeymoon phase"; constantly wanting to hang out and do things together. However, your roommates know you well if they respect your alone time and believe that having space is important. They know when you're free to talk, but also know when you're not to be disturbed.
5. They know your gross side.
But really, your roommates know just how clean (or not so clean) you can be. They notice that dirty bowl that's been on the kitchen counter for days now, and trust me, they know it's yours. They know when you're bumming it and haven't showered all day, but the best part is that they don't really mind at all.
6. They're ready to hear you rant.
When someone majorly ticks you off, or you just read a news article that you find absolutely ridiculous, your roommates are all ears when you need to vent. They like to hear what is going on with you and should respect what you have to say.
7. They know when it's your bedtime.
Your roommates know that your bedtime on the weekdays is 10 p.m. sharp (if you are a 20 year old going on 80 like me), or they can count on you to be wide awake at 2 a.m. Either way, they understand just how precious your sleep/nap time really is.
8. They know how just how weird you really are.
Your roommates know the side of you that isn't seen in public. When you live with someone, your quirks, humor, flaws, and attitude are ultimately revealed. The best roommates accept you for who you are--weirdness and all.
9. They know when you're stressed.
Whether you're frantically running around the apartment searching for your keys, or you've been in your bedroom for hours cramming for an exam, your roommates know when you are stressed. The best roommates recognize when you are anxious, and are there to reassure you.
10. They're there for you when your mom isn't.
Unfortunately, your mom isn't there to help with laundry, cooking dinner, or general "adult things." She can't always be there to hug you when you are having a bad day, or are in desperate need of a shoulder to cry on. Your roommates recognize when you need someone and are there to support you.
11. They are your best friends.
Finally, you know that your roommates know you best when you consider them to be your best friends.
I can honestly say that since I've lived with my roommates, our bond has only grown and became more complex as time passes. I will not regret having lived with my best friends in college, and our experiences together are memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
