College Series: Tips on How to Get Along with Roommates

I am heading into my senior year of college so I could consider myself an expert on the whole roommate situation. I have had great roommates and roommates from hell. Both have made me realize what it takes to be a good roommate.

Before I get to the tips, here is a little on my history of roommates.

Freshman – I lived in a small double with a friend from high school, Kara. Directly across the very small hallway lived Sarah. I could consider both these gals my freshman year roommate/hallmate.

Sophomore – I moved into a quad. My direct roommate was Kara. In the other double lived Halle and Grace.

Junior – Halle, Kara, and Sarah went abroad so I changed things up and lived in an apartment with my friend from my team, Nicole. The two other girls were the worst roommates I ever had. In fact, it was so bad I moved into my sorority house with Halle the second semester.

Senior – I will be living in an apartment-style building with Sarah, Halle, and Kara. Aka the SHAK.

My school requires you live on campus all four years. Not a problem hun, we make the most of it. So, as you can see from my history, I have essentially lived with the same girls throughout all of college. I guess that makes me a good roommate? These girls are not only my roommates but my best friends. Also, just want to throw this in here. Nothing ever happened with me and Nicole, still best friends just different living situations.

Here are some things to keep in mind about picking roommates:

1. Some friendships can be ruined by living together.
2. Your roommate does not have to be your best friend upon selection.
3. Speak your mind and be able to have a mature conversation before committing to living together.

These are my best tips I have once you and your roommate/s move in together:

1. Communication is key.
2. Learn to agree to disagree.
3. Don’t sweat the small stuff, or pick your arguments.
4. Be respectful of others living styles, pick up after yourself.
5. Don’t judge someone who naps a lot, talk to them if it gets out of hand.
6. Do random nice things.
7. Get meals together.
8. Check in on each other.
9. Include each other.
10. Learn how to take a deep breath and be a bigger person.