There is no easy formula for living with roommates. Below are
some
suggestions from those who gone through dorm life:
*When you first move in, try to reach agreement with your roommate about these things: housekeeping; telephone: cost and use; shared expenses; visiting hours; sleeping hours: reconciling the early bird with the night owl; space: closet, study, personal; borrowing: clothes, books, personal property; playing music: type; volume; hours.*Clear communication from the start. Be aware of what bugs you and let your roommate know.
*Keep communicating. If your roommate does something that irritates you, tell your roomie, not the person across the hall.
*Maintain a sense of humor.
*Do things with your roommate outside of the room. Going to a movie may help remind you that your roommate is human.
*Don't expect people to know how you are feeling - tell them.
*Go into dorm living with a realistic attitude. Resign yourself to the fact that concessions will have to be made.
*Respect your roommate as a person and respect their stuff.
*Don't take all comments personally.
*If things aren't going well, talk to your residence advisor or campus ministry folks.
*Remember, not everyone can get along with everyone else. If the situation gets bad, get out. Check on policies about moving to a different room.
*After all, the above suggestions are easier said than done. Godspeed! Keep the faith.
*Lastly, keep in mind that living with a previously total
stranger is an adventure where the outcome is largely up to you. You may find that your roommate is indeed a foe. However, you may make a friend who becomes a lifelong confidant. Above all, learning to get along with a roommate is a valuable education for marriage and family life.