Going in Blind: Scared your roommate is going to be a klepto? A (loud and talentless) drummer? A sleep talker?
- Be respectful of time issues, especially with sleep and studying. If you are a morning person and you're living with a night owl, try to find a schedule that works well for both of you.
- Be clear about space issues. No one wants a masking tape line down the center of the room, so talk about which items and spaces can be communal, and what needs to remain private.
- Make a point to go to lunch or dinner at least once a week. You'll be able to get some bonding time outside of the confines of your room.
- Think positively. Even if you get stuck with your worst nightmare, focusing on the good (are they a good cook? A hard worker? Do they have interesting talents?) will make the year go by much more smoothly.
Living with Friends: It can be difficult going from BFFs to roommates. A lot of habits that seemed funny or endearing could drive you up the wall when you start living together.
- Always be honest. If you like someone well enough to live with him or her, keep the lines of communication open when a problem arises.
- Discuss visitor hours and party plans. It's important that you feel comfortable in your own home, and having messy ragers every other night could put a strain on any friendship.
- Create a chore calendar. Be sure that everyone is pulling their own weight, and remember to rotate the undesirable tasks, such as cleaning the bathroom.
Uncomfortable Situations: Unfortunately, it's unlikely you will make it through the year without one of these awkward moments or altercations.
- The live
- in lover. No one likes to walk in on "special time" or wake up to sounds that are distinctly...amorous. Make some boundaries: figure out what makes you comfortable and allows your roomie to still have time with their significant other. For example, ask that slumber parties only happen on the weekends, or Boyfriend Bill doesn't use your shampoo.
- Disagreements. Tackle the problem immediately instead of letting the resentment rise. If things get too heated, take a time
- out and then resume the discussion when everyone has cooled down.
- Money. Have a roommate that keeps missing rent payments or won't cough up their share for a party? Address this right away; you don't want your finances to suffer as a result. Be understanding, but make it clear that skimping on money matters affects both of you.
- Food: to share or not to share? This also goes for clothes, toiletries, dishes, etc. Mark anything that is specifically for your use with a Sharpie (or just verbally), and then let your roommate know what you are willing to share.
(For other tips, try websites like collegeconfidential.com or collegecandy.com)
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