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Going to college and living with new people is a living and learning experience. It’s the first time you’re living with people whom you share the same ambitions, interests, and of course, fears. While having roommates is an exciting part of your college experience, it’s important to maintain a civilized relationship with them, so that the living situation is comfortable for everyone. According to The College Board, “You’ll find that sharing space builds character.” Your ex
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Comments
08.14.09
I think the #1 complaint I heard from friends in college was having to deal with significant others. I've personally had to deal with some roomie girlfriends that I didn't necessarily get along with.
Another thing to remember is to make sure that the people around you are respectful of your roommate as well. Friends and girlfriends don't have to live with the person 24-7 so they're more likely to walk all over them unless you keep them in check.
My 2 cents from four years of college life :)
08.15.09
Nice post Pete and great input Ryan. I'm heading to college for the first time in 9 days so I'm very excited. I think communication before actually moving in with your roommate can help a lot too because that's what I did and now I'm not as worried as I was earlier in the summer.
08.15.09
Yea, If there was one thing I'd do different I would have had some kind of list my first year of college, and would have tried to come to some kind of meeting of the minds before hand. My first roommate was beyond tolerable, and I'm assuming some of it could have been prevented, had I been more aware of the need to pre-plan and communicate.
08.15.09
All these pieces of advice are great, but I think one that is really important too is tolerance.
Sometimes a roommate just will not change, even after attempts of communication, attempts to make compromises, etc. Instead of letting it get to you, just think that there are probably some things that you do too that annoy your roommate. So, what I'm saying is that sometimes after all attempts to make things how you want, you just got to let it slide and make the best out of the situation.
08.16.09
From my experience the majority of roomie disagreements were caused by cleaning issues and noise problems.
1. Make a cleaning schedule. Have one roommate be the "checker" for the week and the rest of the roomies are responsible for cleaning one room. If someone doesn't do their job, they buy beer for the house. It's a win-win.
2. Don't slam things around in the morning if roommates are sleeping. Make sure roommates are OK with A-bars at your place before you invite all your new friends over. Be careful about interrupting people's sleep!--cranky roommates are hard to handle.
08.16.09
Also, do not silently hold grudges. I'm not advising complaining to your roommates about every tiny little thing, but if there is a big issue bothering you, address it with them. Honestly, much tension could have been avoided had my roommates followed this advice...myself included!
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