Dear new roommate,

It can be extremely scary coming into school when everyone else has started. I understand that you feel out of place, or like you are intruding but that is not the case at all.

Yes, I will admit that it was definitely weird at first, but that's because I lucked out and was in a room for two people my first semester with just myself. I'm still getting used to waking up with another person in the bed next to me, or making sure that I keep all of my junk on my side of the room. I'm not used to having to bring my clothes with me into the bathroom to change, or making sure that I'm not too loud on the phone.

But it's nice for a change too. I have someone who I can casually chat with in the next bed, or ask about what outfit you think you'd like better. I'm never shy on needing a lunch and dinner buddy cause I know that I can always ask you.

It gives us both a chance to make new friends, through our own friends, and branch out to learn new things. I am willing to help you in whatever way you need of getting around campus, where to get food off campus, a mall run, or anything else that you would want to do.

Don't be afraid of us, in whatever way that we might come off. Sure our neighbors can be loud at times, and you might think that they don't like each other, but believe me, they are closer than you think. I hope that you become comfortable enough where we can talk about the latest drama or gossip about whatever it might be that is bugging you that evening.

I hope you get the chance to see this as your second home, and join the rest of us in a way that we consider each other family. Cause no matter where you go in life, just know that the friends you make in college can end up being the friends you'll have for life.

So welcome new roommate, and stay a while. Kick off your shoes, take off your jacket and join the party that you call college. I may come off a bit of a bitch sometimes but I promise it is just in a loving and caring way. Do not be afraid of the things I might say, or the way that some of us react to each other.

Welcome to a place where you have the freedom to choose, you can make your own schedule, become a new person, and do whatever it is that may please you. Enjoy your time with who you meet, because you'll learn that by next semester unless you go out of your way to stay in contact, you might never see those friends again.

Take time to reflect on what you learn per semester. Understand the changes and the way that time moves, because before you know it, we will all be standing up on a podium and preparing ourselves to graduate in the big world.

But more importantly, enjoy it. If you have to skip a class cause you're feeling sick, do it. If you can't finish your homework and you know someone that is willing to give it, don't be afraid to ask. College is flexible. But no matter what, your mental health comes first.

Sincerely,

Your new roommate