Your living situation may not be ideal this semester, but sometimes you have to make the best of a bad situation. Here are some problems you may encounter and how you can solve them.
1. Too many people
The truth is college often forces you to live in either a small double or a suite with 5 other people. If you find yourself in one of those suites, try to set aside equal space for all of your roommates. However, if there isn’t enough storage space, be the nice guy by offering to share one o fyour drawers or cabinet spaces. In the long run, sharing could potentially save you from future conflict.
2. Personal boundaries
When you are sharing a room or common space with other people keep in mind that the space is not entirely yours. Be sure to ask your roommate before you borrow or take anything. Most people probably will not mind sharing, but the right thing to do is make sure that it is okay.
3. Relationships
You can make lifelong friends and maybe even find your soulmate. If you are having people over, let your roommate(s) know. Friends are usually okay, but try your best not to sexile (at least not too often). Whenever that happens, be sure to give them a warning by shooting them a text or Facebook message. It will save you from an awkward walk-in or future fight.
4. Neighbors
You may live next door to loud, constant partiers or neighbors who turn the television up too loud while watching scary movies. In fact, this may describe your-self. If it is you, remember to be weary of when it is appropriate to be loud and when it is not. Your floor will have quiet hours in the evening where you are expected to keep the noise down. When considering your noise level it is important to be mindful of others who are trying to sleep or study.
5. Different schedules
Keep in mind that you will each have your own way of doing things. Some people want to sleep in and forget about 8 a.m. classes, while others want to get it out of the way. Be aware that even though you are doing things on your own time, there may be someone else trying to sleep on the other side of the room.
6. Communication
Remember, you do not have to be best friends with your roommate(s), but you do need to coexist. If you have a problem or concern, speak up. If you feel uncomfortable ask your friend or RA to help mediate the conversation.
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Just because you’re in a rough situation, doesn’t mean it’s here to stay. If things are ever too much trouble, you can always try to change rooms. However, the best start is to follow these tips and try to make it work!Â