For most people, college is the first time they’ve ever had to share another room with another human being; sometimes, two human beings. (Also, I’m really sorry if you have to share your room with two other people). For those transitioning to the dorm life, or looking for ways to improve the one you already have, here are some tried and true tips on being a good roommate to anyone.
1. Don’t be a hog. Everyone needs a little down time every once and a while. Don’t be in the room 24/7—this makes the dynamic of the room really off. If you’re always in the room, your other roommate won’t have a sense of independent space. The room won’t be theirs as well as yours. It’ll just be yours. Get it?
2. So try and give your roommate some time alone in the room. They could use this time in a number of ways: calling family or friends, taking a nap, meditating, reading, reflecting, writing, you name it. Everyone needs some alone time. Don’t infringe upon another person’s alone time. Of course, this alone time could also be spent at the beach, hiking, or taking walks, but honestly, there’s nothing like just watching Netflix alone in a quiet environment when you have nothing else to do.
3. Sleep is very, very important. So do your best to be an accommodating roommate. So like, silence your phone, don’t have people in the room while your roommate is trying to sleep, etc.
4. Set rules. If you expect the room to look a certain way, then make that known. If you don’t like it dirty, then gently express to your roommates that you would prefer a cleaner room. Delegate responsibilities like taking out the trash and vacuuming, and don’t forget to rotate those responsibilities. No one likes being taken advantage of.
5. Be courteous. If you’re planning on having people over, definitely ask your roommate’s permission, especially if this person isn’t a mutual friend. No one wants to walk into a room and have someone random that you don’t know just standing in your life. (Cause like, my room is a pretty good indicator of my current life situation [It’s always a mess. Always]) Don’t talk on your phone in your room forever. No one wants to be a part of your conversations. If the conversation can be moved, move it.
6. Most of all, just be aware of your roommate's needs and wants. No, you will not be able to please everyone, but no one should be miserable. Living with other people requires a lot of emotional maturities as well as general maturity. Do your best, be respectful, and don’t be a jerk. Try to be understanding of the other person even if you feel like you’re right. This is just a crash course in learning how to live well with other people.
