How to Deal with Those Darn Roommates

You step out of the car, heading across the lawn toward your new apartment. You’re fresh in college, excited about the prospects of studying, friends, and… secretly, you’re also a little pleased about the idea of getting away from your annoying siblings who mess up the house, take all your food, and yell and scream and drive you crazy.

Guess what, new student?

Roommates can be even worse than siblings, at times. They do all of the above-mentioned activities and then some. If you’re worried about dealing with roommates or you’ve had bad experiences in the past, look no further. Here are a few reasons why you should work with your roommates and a few suggestions on how to do it.

Why Try?

Why even try? You’re probably going to be gone in a year anyway. Is it worth getting along with your roommates? The answer, my friends, is a big, fat yes. Here’s why:

• Friendship: Your roommates in college can become your best friends, even after the graduation cap is off. I know I still call my old roommates to get together and ask how they’re doing. It’s great to make these long-lasting friendships.
• Contention: No one wants to live in a house that’s full of fighting. Work with your roommates to keep your apartment a peaceful place that’s inviting to you and to others.
• Live Better: Trust me, you want to be able to come home and relax. College is hard, and if you can’t have a sanctuary in your apartment, it will only be harder. Cooperate with roommates to make the apartment you live in a great place!
• Help Each Other: Your roommates whom you’ve made strong ties with will be there to help you out. They’ll drive you places, quiz you for tests, and you’ll do the same for them. It’s great having so much support so close to home.

Tips for Getting Along

It’s wonderful to befriend your roommates and to shut contention outside of your home. Here are some great things you can do to make it happen:

• Respect: Have respect for other peoples’ things and wishes. You’ll want them to do the same for you. If they request that you turn the volume down on your music or that you don’t make so much noise at night, agree. When you need something from them, they’ll be much more willing to listen to you, and you’ll get along better overall. This is the most important tip I can suggest.
• Help Out: When those cleaning checks come around, be the one to get started. Keep your apartment clean even when the RAs aren’t coming around to check. No one can live in a place overflowing with messy dishes, dust, and your dirty clothes. Keep the environment a nice place, and nice people will follow.
• Invites: Invite your roommates to be with you on the weekends! This is the quickest way to make good friends. You’re all new, you all need support, and you’re all living together! Hang out on the weekends in a chill environment; get to know each other when you’re not stressed and studying. It will help a lot in your apartment.

Roommates can become your worst enemies or your best friends. I’ve seen both of these scenarios occur, and I know that it happens. Use these tips to make sure that it’s the latter! I promise, living in an apartment of peace, and friendship is so much better than coming home from a hard day to a place full of bickering. You can make a difference. So, go ahead! Try it. You might be surprised at how long your friendships last.