College is back in session, and cohabitation is in the air. Whether you are living in a dorm or renting a home off-campus, having a roommate is likely either part of your present or in your near future. Having roommates is an excellent way to reduce your expenses and to make lifelong friends, but conflicts at home can become a huge source of stress and anxiety for college students. That is why choosing the right fit for you is extremely important.
Despite the horror stories, we have all heard from ex-roomies who have been scorned by their evil, slovenly cohabitors. The source of drama is due less to the fact that one roommate is inherently evil and caused more by incompatibility. Before you select the person or people you will be sharing your home with for the foreseeable future, here are a few things you might want to consider.
Personality Types
Are you an introvert or an extrovert? A morning person or a night owl? These may not seem like big issues now, but they can directly affect the way that you and your roommate communicate and co-exist. You need time alone, but your roomie loves hanging out together. You have an early morning, but your roommate is binge-watching TV at 2 A.M. Sometimes opposites attract, and differences can be exciting and challenging. However, extremely differing personalities may become a recipe for disaster.
You’re doing your laundry, and you realize that your roommate’s clothes are in the mix. Is this a problem? Everyone has quirks or ways of doing things that may not be favorable in all living situations. Some people believe sharing a home means sharing everything: personal space, food, clothing, and a hamper. Everyone is comfortable with different levels of intimacy! Evaluate your do’s and don’ts, and make sure you are both on the same page. Setting clear boundaries can help avoid unnecessary fighting.
Division of Duties
Living in your own place comes with a new set of responsibilities: paying bills, doing dishes, buying groceries, and etc. The good news is that you have a partner, so make sure you choose a good one. Some of the most common fights roommates have begin because one feels like they are contributing more than the other. Make sure you and your roommate understand how you both want to divide the household responsibilities. Find a roommate you can trust to share the workload, and make sure you take care of your share!
Guests
College is a time where you are constantly building new relationships. Whether it’s a study buddy, best friend, or latest romantic encounter, it’s likely that you will want to host guests at your home. When doing so, consider the size of the group and the nature and frequency of the visits. Are you both comfortable with throwing parties, or would you prefer smaller groups? Are adult sleepovers your forte, or should guests leave by a certain time? How often is too often? While homes are great for entertaining, make sure you and your roomie are respectful of each others time and study needs, and be mindful of adopting unofficial roommates.
College is hard. Stress is high, and some conflict is unavoidable. However, communicating these concerns with prospective roommates can help reduce future arguments and make your house, apartment, or dorm a home!