How to Get Along With Your College Roommate

Every high school graduate is excited for their first day of college. Finally, you are free of your parents ready to make a name for yourself. Like with any good fortune, there is a catch. That catch is your college roommate or roommates. If you live on campus, which most colleges require of freshmen, you will have a roommate. This entails sharing a room with a complete stranger. With a few easy steps, your college roommate will become your best friend.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Be aware that most colleges today send a name and phone number of your roommate. Call your roommate before you arrive. This gives you a chance to know them before you meet them. Remember to discuss who is getting what. You don’t want to end up with two microwaves and no mini-fridge.

2. Know that moving day is always hectic. To keep things simple, compromise on what goes where. Also decide who sleeps where. Some colleges also allow for room rearrangement, so consider this before unpacking.

3. Talk with your roommate. Find out her interests, schedule and the clubs she is signed up for. You may find out that you have much in common. Keep in mind that not everyone is going to share your opinions, beliefs or interests. Always keep an open mind.

4. Know that personal space is a necessity to everyone. When sharing cramped quarters, it is essential that you get some time to yourself. Make a schedule with your roommate that allows for an equal amount of alone time. Both of you will be more relaxed for it.

5. Consider that weekends at college can be challenging. There will be times when you want the room to yourself for the weekend, but so does your roommate. What do you do? Switching off is the easiest solution. One of you takes the room for the weekend and the other does something else. There are plenty of things to do on the weekend. You can visit friends at other colleges, stay with your girlfriend or boyfriend or the dreaded parent visit. You’ll have to do your laundry anyway.

Tips & Warnings

• Don’t expect your roommate's sympathy or help in dealing with personal conflicts at college
• If you feel that things won't work out between you and your roommate switching is an option. Colleges always allow their students to switch roommates in such situations.

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