As we are about to start up a new year, we are also about to have to live with a roommate. Whether you have had one before or you are about to live with your first, these tips should help in both situations. It’s not always fun having a roommate, but, with a little patience and communication, it may not be as disastrous as you think.
1. It is ALL about communication.
You need to be constantly talking with your roommate. I am convinced that every problem usually stems from some form of miscommunication. If you don’t like how often they eat your food, tell them. If enjoy how they washed your dishes on day, tell them. If you are mad, sad, frustrated, WHATEVER, tell them. Not only will this help clear up confusion, but it will create an environment where the two of you can feel comfortable and open with each other.
2. Ask each other questions.
You are about to live with them for at LEAST a whole year … get to know them! (Some great questions to ask are preferences with hot or cold, night or morning person, crazy loud or super quiet, study habits, etc.).
3. Set boundaries day one.
Usually a Residential Leader will have a form to fill out to help, but if you try to appease your roommate and agree to things that could make you uncomfortable, you will regret it. Do not settle, but be willing to compromise on the little things. Be able to prioritize what you find most important and have your roommate do the same. Then, get together and discuss what is important for the both of you.
4. Do not let problems pile up,
Bigger problems are harder to fix, so try to confront the problem while it is still small. Do not be afraid of confrontation. It may seem scary, but it will always be the better choice if done respectfully and humbly.
5. Invest in earphones.
This may seem silly and of little importance, but $5 earphones could be the difference between roommates getting along and not.
6. Respect your roommate and their things.
Number one, it is not yours, you have no reason to need to touch it, and number two, if they give you permission, use moderation. Do not get mad if they don’t share with you, IT IS NOT YOURS. If you respect what they have, they will (or at least SHOULD) respect you and your stuff.
7. Don’t talk crap about your roommate.
It sucks when people talk crap about you, so why would you do that to someone else? Yeah, they are not going to be perfect, but not everyone needs to know every detail as to WHY. The best thing you can do is be nice, positive, and hope they treat you the same.
8. Be careful what you bring to your room and how often.
This applies to many different areas, but in every situation, the main focus should be respecting the fact that your living space is a SHARED area. For study groups, although they are great, make them timely, quiet, and try to find an area outside your room to host them. As far as affections go, be considerate of your roommate’s beliefs and level of comfortability. At the very least, be affectionate when your roommate is gone or text them so they know. And lastly, if you plan on bringing something illegal into your room (alcohol, pets, drugs, etc.), be aware that you are also putting your roommate at risk of getting in the same amount of trouble as you.
