Many college students want to have the full college experience, they want to make as many friends as possible without having to room with people they have never met before. I have lived with a "random" every year in college so far, and MOST OF THE TIME it is nothing like the rumors you hear. However, you can't just run into their room and expect them to be your best friend the first day you move in.
1. Set aside time to hang out together
You can't assume that you guys will gel perfectly together right off the bat. Set aside time to hang out together and get to know each other. Go to lunch or to the mall and try to find out their interests. It is easier to get to know somebody that way.
2. Ask for their help
But not too much help you don't want to sound needy. However, ask them for help with an outfit or their advice on a problem you may be having. Go to them when you're stressed. They will appreciate it and feel like they can do the same with you.
3. ALWAYS clean up after yourself
DO NOT leave dirty dishes in the sink for days at a time, just put them in the dishwasher. DO NOT overflow the garbage bag, just take it out to the dumpster. If you have a small get together with your friends, you are responsible for them and their mess. Nobody likes a messy person especially if you bring that mess into the shared living space. If you're going to be messy, keep it confined to your own bedroom.
4. Introduce them to your friends from home
If you have friends over, introduce them to your roommate(s). Don't just isolate them and make it awkward. They may all get along and you can add a new girl to your girl squad, or if they don't get along then at least you tried to include your new roomie(s) in your plans and make them feel welcomed.
5. Invite them along
This goes along with tip number 4. Invite them along on some (not all) of your plans. I'm not saying you have to invite them to everything that you want to do but if you and some friends are going to dinner, then invite your roommate(s) to join you. If you are going to the grocery store, ask them if they need anything or if they want to come with you. They will like the idea that you are including them.
6. Be Yourself
Always be yourself no matter what. If they don't like you after all of these tips, then don't sweat it. You will make it through the year just fine and then you can try again with new people. Never try to be someone you're not just to please them or fit into their lifestyle. If they like to party but it's not your thing, they won't care if you stay in on Friday while they go out. Be true to yourself and everything will work out.
