How to be a good Roommate: the Do's and Don't

Do's

Communicate

It is important to let your roommate know if you need some time to process negative emotions. You don't have to go into details. You're having a crazy day? Let them know so if you give unusual answers to their questions they know it's not personal. You're planning to host some guests? Let them know in advance too.

 

Keep common spaces neat

This especially applies to shared spaces. Wash your utensils and wipe surfaces after use. Avoid leaving your side of the room disorganised as well.

 

Invest in a pair of headphones/earplugs

As long as you're living with someone else on campus it's bound to get loud. They may need to take a long phone call, catch a movie or listen to some music at night. Earplugs help you shut it all out without offending your roommate. Earphones on the other hand make it easy to watch your shows without bothering your roommate.

 

Replace what you finish

If you share food, be sure to replace what you use if it runs out. It could be anything from milk to cereal or sugar.

 

Don'ts

Make copies of keys for loved ones

For the sake of peace, limit key copies to yourself and your roommate. No one appreciates surprise visits from strangers in your absence. You're bound to be happier when access to your room is limited.

 

Leave the door unlocked

This would serve as a recipe for disaster. Open doors tempt sticky hands. There are people that may want to borrow your stuff while you're not around. You would naturally think your roommate has taken what's missing. This breeds mistrust between the two of you. To avoid it keep the room locked when unoccupied.

 

Eat your roommate's snacks

It's the surest way to become enemies. Worse still is if you drink their alcohol. I have a friend well in his thirties that has never forgiven his campus roommate for drinking his wine and that's how that cookie crumbled.

 

Engage in PDA with your significant other in common areas

Try and keep your displays of affection as private as possible. Avoid putting your roommate in awkward third wheel situations. Get a private space if you want to do grown people stuff.

 

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to having a pleasant boarding experience with your new roommate. As far as choosing a good roommate is concerned, follow your gut and you'll be good.

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