When you are going through the process of figuring out who you want your roommate to be, and you are filling out the application form for similarities and what type of characteristics you want them to have and whatnot, be adventurous and say that you want someone random, and maybe even someone that isn't from America. I know, most people coming into college want to room with someone they know because they're used to that person and trust them but why not get out of your comfort zone and make a life long friend? Trust me it's a wonderful opportunity and you get to hear about a part of the world you've never been to and its just an amazing experience overall. Who knows, you might get to go visit their country one day if you are lucky!
Reason number one to have an international roommate: You learn a lot about where they are from and the cultural differences. You get to try all the different candy their family sends them. (Chocolate from Germany is 10x better than American chocolate). You hear about all the different traditions and holidays. There are so many questions to ask and so much you want to know that you won't know where to start. You will never run out of anything to talk about. I'm telling you that you won't regret it. Both of you will learn a lot from each other. Make sure to always have an open-mind.
Reason number two to have an international roommate: You obviously get to learn a different language. I mean you might not be fluent, but you'll at least learn some words that your friends don't know. It does get awkward though when your roommate is FaceTiming their family while you are in the room and you have no idea what they are saying so you don't know if they are talking about you or not. Or you will be having a conversation with them and they'll accidentally say a word thats not in English and you are just like "What did you just say to me?", it makes for a great laugh.
Reason number three to have an international roommate: They will become your best friend and family. No matter how different your backgrounds are you will accept one another and you will love each other like family. You will be there for each other when one another is down. You will make each other laugh until you cry. You will be each others motivator. Lastly, you will be that person they can always count on. You are as close as it gets to family especially if their actual family is 5,000 miles away. You will have a friendship that you will be able to cherish and remember forever.
So after all of that has been said I encourage you to get out of your comfort zone and get yourself an international roommate. They are pretty awesome if you ask me!
