This year, many of us, including myself, have chosen to go with a random selection for a roommate. Whether this choice was the best one is to be determined. The following tips are for your year. The best one yet. And how you can look forward to a successful journey.
Tip #1: Don’t freak out if they sleep in their underwear.
Some people like it. Some don’t. If it makes you soooo uncomfortable, kindly ask them to put on some bottoms.
Tip #2: Don’t be rude.
Try your best to not be very loud. Noise is a big issue in our tiny college dorms, so it might suit you both well to discuss what time of the day you both thrive, and plan accordingly. No one wants to be woken up to the sound of a dog alarm (well…I’m sure someone might) when they are really trying to sleep their life away.
Tip #3: Make other friends.
If you and your roommate get along right away, that is fantastic! You’ve won! The gold medal is yours and we all wish to have that. BUT, most of the time, that is not the case for the rest of us. The first weeks are filled with awkward silences and nervous glances across the 2 feet of floor space in your dorm room. This is the moment you call your friends. Sleepover time!
Tip #4: Look to this year as an opportunity.
Often times, our random roommate comes from a culture different than ours. This may seem uncomfortable at the start, as you both look for ways to be yourself in such a small space to share. The important thing to remember, however, is that you may not get another chance to be so close (literally) to someone so different from you.
Tip #5: Find an escape.
This can manifest itself in many forms, such as various clubs (hey, Her Campus is a club *wink wink!) or even something like a job. Many people find enjoyment in such things and you may find the same, so do not hesitate to look into an outlet.
It is important to keep in mind that, if you find yourself completely incapable of continuing to live in your room with your roommate, look to move out of the space. Sometimes it is as simple as this, and that is okay too!