I wish I could say that my roommate and housing experience over my years at Georgetown have been effortless. I wish I could say that I have never seen a mouse scurry across my kitchen and have been able to maintain every friendship even though numbers have forced people to see the difference between friends and roommates. Although we all love The Hilltop, the housing here is no walk in the park. But here are a few things I have learned:
No matter what, do not do anything secretly. Get everything out there – even if it’s not great news. Nothing good can come from hiding your feelings or plans. Sometimes housing is just a numbers game so make sure to have open communication with your friends so that no one is left without options.
Sometimes great friends do not make great roommates…and that’s ok. Part of the reason why you like your friend so much is because they might be a lot like yourself. Perhaps being around them 24/7 will drive you nuts so be careful in who you choose to live with. If you find yourself in a situation where a friendship is threatened make sure to be open, and blunt, about what is bothering you. Remember things that drive you nuts (like leaving the TV on) might not bother others. So keep in mind that maybe you do something that bugs your roomie too.
When it comes to off campus housing, find the house you want early and befriend the current residents. They are the ones with access to the landlord’s information so you want to be sure to be the only person getting those digits. And, as annoying as this is, act early. It forces you into choosing house mates early but in order to get the location you want you need to act fast.
Above all, keep in mind that housing is really hard. Go into knowing that you will have to have some difficult conversations and make some tough choices. But be a little selfish because there is nothing like living in a house with your four best friends…and you might not get that chance ever again.
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