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Tips for Getting Along with Your Roommates

You’ve got plenty of other things to worry about when it comes to college - don’t let roommates be one of them. Here are some tips for getting along with roommates:

1. It’s all about finding the middle ground.

Unless you already plan on rooming with some of your good friends, you’re more than likely to end up rooming with people who are different than you (in some cases very different). You might end up getting along great, or not. But that’s ok. All you have to do is find a happy medium. What I mean by that is to find a way of living in your room where everyone living there is satisfied. 

2. The Golden Rule

It may be tough to satisfy everyone in the room, but make sure to remember this rule (even if you are the only one doing the right thing). Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Meaning if you don’t want them to take your food, don’t take theirs. Most of the time, roommates will share stuff, i.e. fridge, microwave, soap, and even sometimes food.

3. All I’m asking is for a little R.E.S.P.E.C.T.

Remember that just because you don’t have to study one night, doesn’t mean your roommate doesn’t have to. They could have the biggest test of their life the next day. Keep in mind, it’s just as much their room as it is your room.

4. Got a problem? Make it known.

If something that your roommate does bothers you, don’t just sit and wallow in anger. Say something about it. More than likely they will respect you. If they’re playing their music too loud, ask them to turn it down. If they leave their stuff all over the place, ask them to clean it up. If it continues, say something to your RA. It’s really as simple as that. 

Now, even if you follow all these rules, or make up ones that work for you, it doesn't mean that you will always get along with your roommates. The most important thing to remember is to respect each other by being considerate.