Roommates

Living with a roommate in college can either be a great experience or the cause of a lot of anger and frustration. Unfortunately, more often than not, it is the later.

Student suggestions for a successful roommate experience:

• During the first week, sit down and talk about making some rules that will help ensure an enjoyable experience together.
• Decide who will take the trash out, who will vacuum, clean, what time you would like to go to sleep.
• Coordinate your study schedules. If he or she likes to study late, watching tv, that may be a problem for you.
• Be respectful of your roommate's belongs. Always ask before using their things and don't invade upon their space.
• The key is to be open. If something is bothering you, tell him or her right away. Stand up for yourself. You need to be flexible, but don't let them make you miserable.
• Hang out together, but don't over do it. You will be seeing each other all the time. It will be easy to get sick of each other. Make sure you have other friends.
• If things just aren't working out, you can always put in a request for a roommate change. Talk to your resident advisor to get the necessary forms.