First time living with a roommate? This can be a difficult adjustment but is usually a great experience. Keep reading for 7 tips on living with roommates!
1. Find a way to decorate your room
Talk with your roommate and make your room feel like home! Find decorations that you both love and split the cost with one another. If you don’t like the same decor, keep yours on your side and they can keep theirs on the other side. This way, you are both happy and comfortable in your space.
2. Communicate Openly
Talk with each other about any concerns or preferences. Respect their privacy and if you are ever unsure how they will react to something, just communicate with them about it. This will prevent any misunderstandings and will help build the friendship between you two!
3. Get to know one another
You will be living with this person for the entire year, so you may as well get to know each other. Go to events together, find shared hobbies, grab a bite to eat together, etc. You may find your new best friend!
4. Create shared responsibilities
Things such as chore charts or a schedule for cleaning, grocery shopping, and other household tasks can be created to ensure fairness. This will also keep your room clean and equipped with anything that is needed. I recommend having one day a week to reset and deep clean as well as get groceries if you are low on anything.
5. Be considerate with guests
You want to respect each other’s privacy, so discuss guest policies upfront. This consists of how often you can have friends over as well as what hours are appropriate. You don’t want to bring your friends into your room and be loud while your roommate is trying to sleep or work on homework. Inform them and discuss it before you make an assumption that it is okay.
6. Discuss study habits
It is important to talk about your study routines. Some people like to study in complete silence, while others prefer background noise. Finding a compromise is key! For example, the two of you could arrange individual study times according to your schedules.
7. Most importantly, have fun!
These 4 years will fly by so it is important to enjoy them while they last. Get to know people and you guys may find your new friend group. Enjoy Carbondale and your Saluki experience!
