As a Resident Assistant, I know the dilemma residents go through as they try to live with their roommates. From disagreeing with one another’s lifestyle to arguing about who’s going to take out the trash. Here’s a few pointers on how you can find a roommate and how you can be a good roommate.
Tips for finding a roommate:
- GET ACTIVE on social media. Join your class year’s Facebook page and get to socializing.
- EXPRESS YOURSELF in a positive way. If you like things to be tidy, suggest having a cleaning schedule.
- ASK QUESTIONS about that person’s lifestyle and his/her habits.
Tips for being a good roommate:
- COMMUNICATION is key; if you have issues talk them out. Do not sit and let the problem escalate. You can use the 24 hour rule, giving yourself a day before approaching your roommate and/or an RA.
- BE RESPECTFUL to each others space. Sharing a space with someone you do not know can open doors to many mistakes. Establish a mutual agreement with your roommate to discuss what you are both comfortable sharing with each other.
- BE INTERACTIVE with your roommate. Try to hang out with each other or do things together, like laundry or movie nights
The most important thing to remember is that both you and your roommate have a responsibility to each other and to yourselves. Help support one another and respect each others different values/beliefs. Lastly, Try to make an effort to find solutions to any problem together.
Thank you for these tips. I will defenetly put them to use.