Don’t be afraid to get to know each other: just dive in! The more you know about each other e.g., your majors, interests, hobbies, and bad habits), the easier it becomes. Understanding each other is the key. Make sure that you both address the concerns of the room. Don’t forget that a compromise must be reached.
- Talk about preferences on how the room should be arranged. Some people don’t like sleeping in the closet.
- Talk about waking times, study times, social hours and bed times. Don’t keep an early riser awake too late. Otherwise, he just might wake you up at a time you didn’t know the world existed.
- Address concerns about phone calls. If you don’t like midnight phone calls, let them know. Expecting a call? Let them know.
- Let each other know what you can and will share. Some things are very personal, but others can be shared. (Lock your underwear drawer, just in case.)
Rise above your differences and learn to enjoy sharing a room with a new person. Yes, sometimes there will be conflict, so make sure you figure it out. You don’t want to live with an enemy.
- Meet at a convenient time to discuss issues. Reach a compromise that works for both of you. Don’t be selfish; it can damage the relationship more.
- Keep it in the room. Don’t let others influence the outcome of your troubles. Conflict resolution is important later in life, so develop the skills now.
- If needed, agree on some rules and post them.
- Don’t act poorly towards your roommate. When was the last time insulting someone made them see your point? Treat them the way you would like to be treated.
Set boundaries for the room. Lock your doors! It’s important to protect the valuables and integrity of the room you are sharing. Compromise about when guests are allowed to come into the room.
If your roommate wants someone to stay the night, discuss it first and make sure it follows the guest guidelines in your Residence Hall Handbook. You and the rest of the dorm probably don’t want a crying baby in your room overnight. Don’t allow anyone to stay in the room without one of you there, even if it’s your best friend. Consider each other’s privacy and security.
If all else fails, find your RA (Resident Advisor) and ask for help. RAs are trained to help with your problems. Even if everything is fine, stop by to see them. They’ll be glad to get to know you.
