One of the most exciting parts about moving away to college is having your own dorm room with your very own roommate! While it can be incredibly fun to have a built-in-bff, problems can arise as the year goes on and nobody wants to hurt any feelings. It can be hard to figure out how to talk to your roomie about any problems you’re having, but have no fear, we’ve got you covered!
1. Make a roommate contract
When you first move in and get all settled, create a list of ground rules that are important to both you and your roomie. This will be great whenever a problem arises because you can both look back at the contract you created together for your ~happiest~ living situation. Just pull it out and go over what you both agreed on if anything ever goes wrong so you can remind your roommate of your ground rules without hurting her feelings.
2. Communicate
The worst thing you can do when a problem comes up is keep it to yourself. It is crucial to communicate honestly, openly, and frequently so you and your roomie are always on the same page.
3. Remain calm
When discussing any problem with your roommate, you want to remain calm and never raise your voice. If you start yelling or swearing, you’re going to upset your roomie and that will only make things worse. Take deep breaths, think before you speak, and take your time.
4. Compromise
While it’s hard to not get your way, it’s important to meet your roomie halfway. Understand that it’s a shared space that you live in and no one is the perfect roommate. Be open-minded to the possibility of compromising on any given situation.
5. Don’t wait
The last thing you want to do is let all your problems build up. Speak up when something is bothering you. This way, you won’t explode on your roomie with a million things that bother you. Handle each problem as it comes.
6. Talk to your RA
We have RA’s for a reason – utilize them! Ask your RA their opinion on what to do when a problem arises with your roomie. They can even come mediate a conversation for you, giving an unbiased side to the situation.
7. Be patient
Be patient with your roomie. Problems don’t go away overnight; give her time to address the problem in her own way. It’s important to see things from her side, too. Always be patient and kind, and I promise your roomie will have no problem hearing you out!