Everyone knows one of the most important aspects of a freshman in college's life is roommate selection. This is the person you're about to spend the next nine months eating, sleeping, and sharing the same air with.
Let's just say I didn't get so lucky the first time around. Having committed to Temple a little later than expected, I was matched in the residence hall I wanted with the opposite roommate I had in mind.
Fast forward to the Spring semester of my freshman year. I'm currently living on the 11th floor of a traditional style residence hall. Yes, this means I have a communal bathroom with only a bed and desk furnished in my room. Despite the living circumstances, I can easily say I couldn't be happier.
My roommate (Sammie) and I were randomly assigned to each other. I remember nervously sending her an email when we got our assignment, unsure how it would turn out this time.
"Don't expect your roommate to be your best friend. You'll end up disappointed," my Owl Team leader warned me at orientation. Today, however, I can say without hesitation that Sammie has become one of my best friends.
I'm lucky enough to have been matched with someone who is so similar but also so different at the same time. Her being from Philly suburbs and me from central Jersey, we bond over our mutual love for the beach, sushi, and Jamie Dornan.
Aside from the countless late-night walks back to J&H and sushi trips, I know I can always turn to her. No matter how big or small the situation, Sammie has made me feel comfortable enough to say basically anything.
Sammie has also taught me to take things lightly. Being an extremely anxious person, it's easy to have a breakdown here and there. But she constantly reminds me that it's okay, and that I'm human and everyone makes mistakes.
Most importantly, being randomly assigned as Sammie's roommate proved that time and friendships have little correlation. Over the few months we've lived together, whether it's asking her how to reply to a text or telling her my deepest secrets, I know I can trust her. We vibed since move-in day, and I'm forever grateful to have been so lucky.
If there's anyone I can thank Temple for it's definitely her. Had I committed to Temple sooner, the chances of my friendship with Sammie being as strong as it is now are low.
I guess my point here is that everything happens for a reason. I know it sounds cliché, but this is a perfect example of it. My mom always reminds me that everything always works out, and whether it's within a day or a month, she's absolutely right.