Whether it was your first year or you were a transfer student, there’s a strong possibility that you a) either never had to live with someone period, or b) if you did, they weren’t a complete stranger. No matter which one of these categories you fell under, living with your first roommate was most likely exciting and terrifying all at the same time. We’ve compiled some of the things you’ve probably learned on your first time on the roommate rollercoaster!
1) Basically, y’all were different – and you embraced it!
The fact that you and your new roomie(s) were different people was a no-brainer, of course. However, many people wish to find their best friends (or “sisters from other misters”) in their roommates, but sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t – either way is a good thing! It’s important to understand someone else’s background and experiences so that you can relate to them, especially in what’s probably a super small space.
2) Communication is key.
It’s hard to learn how to accommodate someone else in addition to yourself, so it was important to communicate your do’s and don’ts when things came up. Now that you’ve moved out and your living situation has changed (and you have yet another roommate), you appreciate being able to voice your concerns almost like a – you guessed it – REAL adult!
3) Expanding your horizons is essential.
Even though some of your best (and maybe worst) times were with your roommate, now you can appreciate the time you spent apart. The crazy night downtown with the group of friends you met in biology class could have never happened if you hadn’t made it a point to explore other friendships.
4) Adult standards of cleanliness.
The dishes never got done. Old food was left out, or expired in the fridge. There was no chore list, and no one took responsibility. Now, you’re all about cleaning on Sundays and the chore board next to the front door – because, let’s be honest, anything else is just not collegiette like behavior.
5) You discovered yourself.
The most important thing on this list – you’ve grown as a person. Having spent a year or more with another person in limited space, you now know how to better conduct yourself and get along with people who may very well be your opposite. Best yet, you know that sharing is caring – your stories, your things, your food, or whatever it may be, is key to having a great experience with your roomie.