College is a transitional time for everyone, where some are given wings to fly and others are homesick like none other. Young adults are forced to be responsible for themselves, and oftentimes this leads to people learning that their actions do indeed have consequences. However, another component that typically goes along with college is roommates; therefore, some actions have repercussions for more than just oneself.
Whether it be in a dorm, apartment or townhouse, young people are forced to learn patience and communication skills with those who they happen to reside with. In many cases, people have no say in this matter and are randomly matched with a roommate on an online database.
Others choose to live with their best friends and by the end of their lease agreement, they are mortal enemies. Perhaps for some people, this cannot be avoided because some humans just really suck. However, there are ways to prevent being miserable in the place you live and enjoying the company of those of which you share an address or room number.
It all begins with the simple concept of respect. People all have different levels of relaxedness and uptightness, but everyone appreciates respect. It is important to know the boundaries and expectations of the person or people you live with. There are a number of things that should be discussed as soon as you move in or if you have a choice before you move in:
- Do you care if I have friends over occasionally?
- Do you drink or partake in recreational drug use?
- Do messes make you nervous?
- What is your usual bedtime?
- Do you have a significant other? If so how much time will he/she be spending around?
These are just a few examples; the list goes on and on. It is extremely important to be honest when answering and asking these questions. Don’t act like you’re cool with something, because you will seem like a crazy person when freak out a month down the road because your area is a disaster. You were the one who said messes don’t bother you, right?
Cleanliness is a huge factor when living with someone. If you don’t choose to be clean for yourself, do it to keep a civil relationship. And vice versa don’t be so obsessed with cleaning you drive your roommate up the wall.
There is a fine line between the two extremes and learning each other’s expectations might take a bit of time. Just because you didn’t have time to wash your breakfast dishes before you have to be at class, doesn’t mean you have to leave them in the sink for the next three days.
Bathroom etiquette is also a very important factor when you live with someone else. Divide up the area in which each persons’ things will be stored and make sure to put your toiletries away after using them.
Clean up the sink, which goes especially for guys, who shave their facial hair in the mirror and let it fall into the sink. In order to prevent an absolutely disgusting bathroom (the most used and important rooms in the house) create a cleaning schedule that you stick to. Do not leave wads of hair in the drain, because let me tell you I do not want to dig someone else’s hair out of the shower, even if it is my best friend’s. Last but not least, when you use the last bit of toilet paper, replace it. Why is that such a difficult concept?
Although it might not be an ideal situation it is important to remember the space you’re living is just as much your roommates as it is your own. Be patient and remember nothing lasts forever, especially leases in college.
