Unless you’re a commuter student, there is one aspect of college you will unable to avoid: roommates! Whether you picked them yourself or go in completely random, one of the toughest parts of college is learning how to get along with your roommates. Sometimes you click, sometimes you clash. Here are a few tips for how to share your space and get along with your roommates.
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- Get to know them
This sounds like common sense; however, it really is important to get to know your roommates. If you don’t take the time to listen to their likes, dislikes, and interests, there is not a high chance of you bonding with them. When you get to know a little more about who they are and what they do, it helps you to understand them better and find common ground.
- Find ways to bond
After getting to know your roommate(s), use that information and find ways to bond with them. If they’re really into fashion, ask them to go to Primark with you. If they love sports, see if they’re interested in going to a Sox game. Little adventures like these will help bring you closer and, if you try things that don’t particularly interest you, you might find something new you like.
- Tackle problems head on
If a problem rises between you and your roomies, try to tackle it head on. Don’t avoid the issue or things are only going to get worse. Have an honest upfront conversation about the issue at hand. Chances are, a long talk and a sincere apology will solve most minor problems.
- Have respect for one another
At the end of the day, sometimes friendships just don’t work. People’s personalities clash and they’re just not meant to work together. It’s okay. If this is the case with you and your roomie, at least have respect for one another. You don’t have to be best friends, or even like each other, but it is important to respect one another to prevent issues from escalating.