It may be your first experience living away from home if you plan to live in the residence when you arrive at college. If that's the case, you'll need all the support you can get to figure out how independent living works and how to make the most of your time in residence.
Here are some pointers on how to make your move-in and time in residence go more smoothly.
Written by Umaima Usman
Communicate
If you share a room in a residence building, the best thing you can do to keep things running well is to chat to your roommates and establish certain ground rules that both of you must adhere to. Leaving passive-aggressive sticky notes or glaring at someone until they ask what's wrong is not communicating. If something is bothering you, be polite, truthful and specific about what is going on.
Make a cleaning schedule
Making a cleaning routine will help you keep your shared space tidy while also holding each other accountable. However, you must also be aware of the other person's schedule. If your roommate is swamped in midterms and assignments this week, you may take their cleaning responsibilities for the week and they could assist you when you are busy.
Be respectful when entertaining guests
When you have visitors over, keep your roommate's requirements in mind. Some people prefer peace and quiet, and may find having a large group of people around unsettling. It's a good idea to check with your roommate to see if having visitors is okay with them.
Build a respectful relationship with them
Take a break to talk to your roommate or go out for a cup of coffee together. Since you'll be spending a lot of time with them, it is worthwhile to get to know one another. It's easier to connect and make the room more friendly when you have a relationship with the individuals you live with.
You should be honest and open with your roommate if you have any issue
While it is important to be understanding, don't wait too long to express your thoughts and feelings. If someone does something that irritates or upsets you, wallowing over the situation only adds to your bitterness and makes things worse.
Set up some expectations in the beginning
Have a discussion with your roommate about the expectations you have for sharing a space. Be aware of people's individual demands, which may differ from yours, and find a method to meet somewhere in the middle. Talking about these topics up front keeps everyone on the same page and offers you something to refer to if problems arise later.
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