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Getting Along With Your College Roommates

Tips for getting along with your college dorm roommates

Getting Along With Your College Roommates

It’s almost time to make the move to your first dorm room or college apartment and you’re terrified. It’s not so much that you’re afraid to leave home (that part’s actually kind of exciting even though it has moments of being scary) but more that you’re somewhat threatened by the idea of an all-new environment. What if you can’t find your way around? How will you know what to do in an emergency? And what if you hate your college roommate?

Relax. Most of the things that you need to know will come naturally as you move into your new place, especially if you’ve got the transition perks of being housed in college housing. But there are a few things that you can take charge of right away. Learning to get along with your college roommate, no matter what he or she might be like, is one of those things. By getting a grasp on this important part of the housing equation, you’ll be well on your way to a positive first apartment experience.

Here are some tips for getting along with your college roommate:

(1) Be open minded.

A good experience starts with your ability to be open to the person you’re sharing space with. Sure, you might wear different clothes, listen to different music and come from entirely different backgrounds but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get along. Accept that differences might be a good thing and get to know this new person without judging them first.
(2) Be respectful.

The key to a good roommate situation is being respectful of one another’s space and needs. Most of this is common sense. Ask before borrowing something that’s not yours. Clean up after yourself or at least keep your mess confined to your part of the room. Don’t make excessive noise when your roommate is studying or trying to sleep. You’d be surprised how much these little signs of respect can make living with your college roommate go more smoothly.
(3) Relax.

Your roommate may not always be respectful and it may drive you up the wall. Relax. Ask yourself if the things that are bothering you are real problems or just small annoyances. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Letting little things get to you can make living with your college roommate a terrible experience.
(4) Communicate.

When problems come up, talk about them. When things need to be worked out, discuss them. Stewing in frustration or trying to resolve two-person issues all on your own will create a roommate situation that could turn volatile. Clear the air early and often to avoid confrontation that gets out of hand.

(5) Remember, It Isn’t Forever.

Finally, remember that you’re only going to be living with this college roommate for a semester or two. Even if the experience isn’t great, it won’t last forever. Enjoy it as much as you can, learn from it and then move on. You’ll have the opportunity to live with a lot of different people, gaining college roommate living together skills as you go. It’s all just part of a bigger adventure!

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