Everyone gets nervous when they move in to their temporary home that's about to be shared with at least one other person. Them not liking you or vice versa is like your worst nightmare. What if you can't handle living with them? What if they don't ever clean their room? What if they don't wash their clothes or flush the toilet? What if they're just straight up annoying? It can be hard living with other people, but in the end it is so rewarding.
Maybe you've known these people for a while. Maybe you haven't met them at all. Nevertheless, that first day of moving in is stressful. Everyone's stuff is piled all over the place, and now you have to fight for the bed furthest away from the window that faces the sunrise. Ideally, you should have talked about this before move-in day. Getting organized and figuring out who is bringing what is very important. We don't want three microwaves and no fridges! The key to a smooth move-in is organization and communication.
Now it's time to see if you'll get along with each other. It's time to set some boundaries. Set in stone the rules. Make a list or get one off of Pinterest and start talking! Make sure you clarify when people can come over, quiet times, cleaning days, music volume, all that jazz. This will eliminate a whole lot of misunderstandings/arguments.
BE NICE. It may not be hard to at first, but if someone has a disagreement, settle it like adults. Sit down and calmly talk it through. If you can't come to an agreement, take it to the RA (or your mom.) And don't angry-text each other. Actually sit down and have a conversation!
Try to actually hang out with them outside of the room! This is especially for the people who are moving in with strangers. Make time to go get dinner in the cafeteria, work out together, or go to a football game with each other. Those little connections will make you closer and more comfortable with living together. Making memories is so important, you'll remember your college years for the rest of your life!
Be there for them. You'll probably see them at some of their worst moments. If they're crying or stressed out or sad, be by their side to comfort them. Maybe even buy them ice cream. They'll be so grateful for it, and they'll probably return the favor later.
Don't stress! Chances are, things will work out great. Almost everyone meets lifelong friends in college, and most of those friends were living with them. They'll see you with morning face, when you're fresh out of the shower, when you're eating your feelings, and when you're laughing your butt off. Connect with them and they will love you and all your little quirks! Before you know it, you'll have some of your best friends living with you.
