Photo via Edu In Review
Are you a first-year student heading off to college or university this fall? If you're like money young people, this new chapter of your life also means that you will be living with a roommate for the first time. Team Greenwin has rounded up some of our top tips for making the transition to roomie-life a relatively easy one, especially if you're going to be sharing a space with someone you've not spent much time with previously.
1. Respect Their Stuff: You've probably heard the saying, "Do unto others as you'd have them do unto you". That is particularly true for living with a roommate. Unless you've already decided that you and your roomie will share everything, be mindful to not take or use their things without their permission. And when it comes to groceries? Don't eat it unless you bought it.
2. Noise Limits: While we all want to unwind and let loose, there is a time and a place for everything. That time is probably not right in the middle of an exam period. Having a few friends over is expected, but don't throw a raging party without talking to your roommate about it first. If you do have friends over and your roommate kindly asks you to keep the noise down, respect their wishes (after all, you'd want them to do the same for you).
3. Money Matters: Who will be paying the rent each month? How will you handle the internet bill? Money is probably the biggest contributing factor to fractured roommate relationships. It's important to sort out who will be paying what as soon as you move in. Arrange to have a sit-down meeting each month when the bills come in so you can sort out who owes what. This is also a great opportunity to check-in with your roommates, especially if you are living with several people.
4. Don't Be Afraid to Speak Up: Once you've been living together for a few months, it's inevitable that a few pet peeves will start to surface. Does your roommate use your shampoo instead of buying their own? Do they leave their hockey equipment sitting right in front of the door? Talk to them now before the problem gets even bigger. Being open and honest (without being mean) goes a long way to ensuring a happy home environment. Chances are, your roommate simply didn't realize that what they were doing was troublesome and will be more than happy to change.
5. Listen: OK, there are things that bug you about your roommate. But let's be honest - there are probably a few things you do that have become pet peeves for your roomie, too. Just as you expect your roommate to listen to you when you want to discuss an issue, it's important for you to do the same for them. Communicating issues and making necessary changes is a two-way street.
Remember - you don't have to be best friends with your roommate, but you do want to live in a friendly environment. By following the tips above, you'll be well on your way to creating that friendly space. Good luck!