If you’re like me, you prefer not to live with college roommates. Not only do I have to adjust to someone’s living conditions, but I have limited space.
I’ve had my fair share of bad roommate experiences and regrets on my own end, but they definitely could have been a lot worse. In fact, these following tips on how to deal with college roommates saved my sanity.
1) Communicate Preferably From Day 1
I remember in freshman year telling my roommates that I wouldn’t want them smoking nor drinking in the room. Call me a prude, because I am and I’m proud, but I have a full scholarship at NYU that could easily get taken away if I’m caught engaging in recreational activities.
And although I room checks are very rare, at least in NYU, I still don’t blame my freshman self because it’s not like I knew that. Besides, I can recount times people did get caught and the consequences weren’t pretty.
Regardless, you need to talk to your roommate about living styles, schedules, cleaning supplies, etc. Not only will you get to know them better as a roommate, but you can create a more ideal situation for the both of you. If problems arise later down the road and you feel as if you can’t deal with it, go to the R.A to seek some assistance.
2) Keep In Mind It’s Their Room Too
As a roommate myself, I find myself being too demanding at times. I like it when the lights are off, no typing when I sleep, etc. And I am annoyed at my own faults considering most college students have late night essays and it wouldn’t be fair on my roommate to shut everything down so that I can sleep.
So, if there is an issue you can try to deal with, then just let it slide. As much as I like to confront my roommate about many things, I don’t have the desire to argue everyday. I usually let it slide when we are about to move out, go on breaks, or if it is just a small annoyance. Everyone can be annoying including you. So, at times its best to put up with their annoying tenancies and just pray away.
3) Leave Your Room Once In A While
Every-time I couldn’t deal with my college roommates whether it was because of an argument or because they just got on my nerves, I usually found a place on campus to cool down. Whether it was my friend’s dorm, a computer lab, a lobby, or the quiet zone, I have a bunch of places on campus that allow me to take a break from my roommates.
I recommend this not only because of your sanity, but also because I was able to better study at these places versus my dorm. I would sometimes go back to my room at 10 with the joy of getting so much work done and the joy of not seeing my roommates all day. Then I’d sleep afterwards. Besides, space between you and your roommate is crucial.
4) Try To Befriend OR Be Friendly
This may not always work because your personalities may not mesh, but at least try to befriend your roommate. Unfortunately, a ton of people get homesick and they may feel lack support on campus, or even the big city.
Although I never had this issue considering at NYU considering I grew up in the city, I think its important to help your roommate when they are feeling down. Chances are they are going to cry themselves to sleep in their room versus any other place on campus.
Whether my college roommates and I were going issues, every-time I cried about my insecurities, stress, or my pre-period cramps were kicking in, I can honestly say that they were supportive and sympathetic.
I know people may not recommend this because living with your best friend may cause issues. But if you’re mature and strong enough, you can really make this tip work. And you may even find a lifelong friend in this as well 😊
5) Keep Your Inner Peace
This kind of relates to number 2, but don’t let any annoying instance get to you. This goes beyond just having roommates. This is for college in general. It takes a lot of maturity to walk away from an argument or to not engage with a person who may bring the worse out of you.
Find ways to vent such as talking to some old friends, or even starting a blog, like I did. Not everyone deserves your energy and time including your temporary roommate.