Roommates 101

Roommates are wonderful but to ensure good relationships, guidelines must be developed. Open communication is the best policy. Be prepared to work on issues and details pertaining to your dorm room or apartment (living and sharing).  Be prepared to share your thoughts and opinions on every subject as well as to hear the thoughts and opinions of your roommate(s)--whether you like them or not!

Residence/Apartment Issues:

• Discuss noise levels, visitors, sleeping habits, music tastes
  • We’re all different, and no one should be expected to change everything about themselves just because it makes someone unhappy, but be considerate that other people don’t work the same way you do. Talk it over with your roommates, and learn to compromise your own wants without completely surrendering to them.
• I'm not getting along with my roommate. Now what?

  • Wait it out. Neither one of you may have ever shared a room before and are both getting used to this new situation. Give it time and get to know them – ignoring each other or the problem never gets anyone anywhere. Also, try not to be negative about your roommate, chances are, they’re feeling the same way you are.

• The realities of your new life (struggles and basic problem solving skills)

  • Be sure to take time for yourself and do something you enjoy and makes you comfortable. Take some time out to relax, and to take your mind off of things.

Good things to do together (building good relationships):

• Get together for a weekly devotional and prayer
• Eat a few meals per week together
• Hang out and do something you all enjoy together
• Talk with and get to know the other person(s) so you can understand them better