Moving away to college always seemed like such an exciting, grown-up thing when I was younger. Now that I really took that first big step and moved five hours away, I have decided it is just as terrifying as it is exciting. On the drive from my hometown to Ole Miss, I would find myself wondering what it would be like to have a roommate. Will she clean up after herself? Does she like to stay up late on Netflix binges? Does she like to sleep in on Sundays? Will she think that I am annoying?

After successfully completing my first week of dorm life with virtually no problems at all, I have discovered that I am really lucky with having Carlye as my roommate. We share a lot of similarities, and we both have a goofy sense of humor.

However, living with a stranger can be nerve-wracking at times. I was extremely nervous to be sharing such a small space with a girl I hardly knew, but in the past few days, I have noticed myself becoming more carefree and outgoing than ever before. The level of awkwardness between us has dissipated, and now we crack jokes like we have been friends forever. I truly believe that putting yourself out of your comfort zone is the only way to grow and experience life in a different light.

After speaking to other girls I have met on campus, I have realized that I really hit the roommate jackpot. Not all girls get along with their roommate, which is understandable. Living with someone that you do not truly know will make you realize that not everyone has the same habits as you do. Not everyone values the same things at the same level- like cleanliness, quietness, and simple consideration for others.

But truly, I have hit the roommate jackpot. Carlye and I go together like peanut butter & jelly. She does, in fact, enjoy Netflix binges and sleeping in, like me. So, if you ever get the opportunity to stay in a dorm with a roommate at college, I encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and make a new friend by rooming with a stranger. Before long, you won't be strangers anymore!