You may have grown up living with lots of siblings, or this may be your first time sharing your living space with someone else.Follow these tips to make sure you and your roommate keep things pleasant and supportive throughout the year (or even years!).
Address problems when they're little
Is your roommate always forgetting her stuff for the shower, and taking yours? Are your clothes being borrowed faster than you can wash them? Addressing things that bug you while they're still little can help your roommate be aware of something she may not otherwise know. And addressing little things is much easier than addressing them after they've become big.
Respect your roommate's stuff
This may seem simple, but it's probably one of the biggest reasons why roommates experience conflict. Don't think he'll mind if you borrow his cleats for a quick soccer game? For all you know, you just stepped over a line that is not crossable.
Be mindful of who you bring into your room-and how often
You may love having your study group into your room. Be mindful of how often you bring people over. If your roommate studies best in the quiet, and you study best in a group, can you alternate who hits the library and who gets the room?
Be friendly, without expecting to be best friends
Don't go into your roommate relationship thinking that you are going to be best friends for the time you're at school. . You should be friendly with your roommate but also make sure you have your own social circles.
Treat your roommate like you'd like to be treated. Deal with problems properly. No matter what your relationship is at the end of the year, you can take comfort knowing you acted like an adult and treated your roommate with respect.
A. If nothing else, follow the golden rule
B. Don't borrow, use, or take anything without getting permission first
C. But your roommate may not
D. While having a roommate inevitably has its challenges, it can also be a great part of your life experience
E. However, your roommate may also think so
F. Address problems when they're big, too
G. It may happen, but expecting it sets both of you up for trouble
