I have spent this school year living in a dorm that is set up in a suite-style. There are 8 girls in my suite, meaning I moved into a room with 7 complete strangers last August. A year later, I have adjusted from living in a room alone for the past 18 years to the wild and craziness of sharing such little space with so many people. And let me tell you: it has worked out even greater than I ever imagined. These seven girls have given me some of the best memories, have helped me grow so much and have taught me so much about life. So here are some lessons I’ve learned in the ever-hectic suite of McConnell Hall Room 305.

1. Seven roommates = seven additional closets

If you have nothing to wear, have no fear! It’s pretty close to a department store with the amount of clothes, shoes and jewelry all over the suite. Walk around and take your pick to complete any outfit!

2. There’s almost no such thing as alone time

I can count on one hand the number of times I have been alone in the suite, and honestly, I don’t like it. It’s eerie and quiet and lonely.

3. We’re all different (but that’s okay)

Each of us have completely different personalities, habits, styles, ideas and thoughts, but we complement each other so well.

4. Ask for help if you need it

I can’t tell you how many times I have needed help with my calculus homework only to have one of my roommates help me out. And it goes the other way; I’ve helped my roommates with papers, too.

5. There’s nothing like girl time

Almost every night, you can find us watching a movie together, playing Cards Against Humanity or painting each other’s nails. We all have or other friends, but there’s nothing like our girls’ nights.

6. There will be times everything won’t be perfect

If someone is having a bad day or is being moody, don’t take it to heart. We can’t all be our best selves 24/7. It wouldn’t be normal if there was never any conflict or misunderstandings.

7. Be considerate

Like I said before, everyone has different opinions and characteristics. Embrace the difference and learn about other perspectives, but be conscious of others’ feelings.

It is crazy to think that in just two short weeks, the seven of us will be parting ways. I will never forget the crazy times, and I am so thankful for what these seven girls have taught me this year. Whenever my other friends are complaining about their roommates, I can never relate simply because I’ve got it so good. Get to know your roommates, they could become some of your best friends.