Sure, my roommate and I had chatted before move-in day—all the typical small talk like “what’s your major?” and “when do you like to sleep?”. A few photos had even been exchanged. I was content. Excited, even. But then August started getting closer, the school year loomed over me, and doubts popped up like stubborn weeds.
My roommate was moving to a new country half way around the world from her home. How was I going to relate to her? Did she like any of the movies I watched? What kind of music did she listen to? Would I come off as an annoying American who excessively said “y’all”?
It wasn’t until I was on my way to campus, everything packed up in little boxes, that I realized I was going to be as awkward as Dr. Sheldon Cooper trying to show affection.
We were doomed from the start.
I’d never even considered how I was supposed to introduce myself. I’ve always been something of a hugger, but some cultures aren’t as touchy as others. Should I just shake her hand? That seemed so formal.
The rest of the drive was a mental tug-of-war, but I’m happy to report that our first meeting was less like a business transaction and much more like two old friends catching up.
Now, it’s November. We are already registering for Spring classes and this semester is coming to a close. I’m finding it’s difficult to imagine my life without my international roommate.
Every day, it feels like I’m experiencing the world so familiar to me through different eyes. I’ve gotten to try out Korean facial masks, listen to traditional Burmese music, and learn words from a language I never knew existed (not to mention that my map skills have expanded quite a bit).
Holidays have always been significant, but now I get to share traditions with someone who’s never dressed up for Halloween or exchanged Christmas presents. That means teaching her what Thanksgiving is all about: gratefulness, family, and Monica Geller dancing with a turkey on her head.
I’ve spoken with other students who have international roommates and received varied feedback. Some have found that their cultural differences are simply incompatible or their basic worldviews clash too strongly. In contrast, it’s been one of the single greatest contributions to my college experience. I am now connected to people and places I never would have imagined as part of my life.
I can’t tell everyone to seek an international roommate, as there simply aren’t enough to go around, but I can certainly encourage the prospect. Broaden your horizons a bit. You’ll be surprised how much another person can teach you about yourself.