Picking a roommate can be a daunting task for many incoming students at the University. Perhaps the most difficult aspects of the shared living environment are keeping the roommate and not getting into visceral fights day after day.
As students who have experienced the trials and tribulations of freshman living, we present various unspoken guidelines to ensure you are being a good roommate.
Be open to trying new things with your roommate
There’s nothing worse than trying to have fun with your new roommate and not having them match your energy. As one enters the new world that is college life, be available to explore campus and new opportunities.
Get The Daily Illini in your inbox!
Try new restaurants, go to house shows, visit the Illini Union or simply walk around campus. Having first-time experiences with your roommate will bond you with them forever.
Communication is key
Living with someone, especially a stranger, is no easy task. Before living with this person for an extended period, establish a way you will hash out any problems in a nonaggressive way.
If something is bothering you, letting it fester won’t do any good. If they bring up an issue with you, have an open mind and put on your problem-management hat.
Be respectful of each other’s space
College is hectic and time is a finite resource. Keeping your space clean and organized is not always in the cards for that week and that is normal.
However, be wary of how much your mess is impacting others. Don’t bring your chaos into their space, and do your best to keep the space from smelling like hot garbage.
Start your own traditions together
It can be easy to be distant from your roommate between seeing your other friends, juggling classes and taking time for yourself. Beginning a recurring activity will keep you both in each other’s lives and create memories for just the two of you.
Whether it’s a weekly debrief over food, watching a television show or playing a game of some sort, it can be beneficial to do so.
Utilize headphones
We all love to scroll and enjoy some brain rot. However, many people forget the roommate can also hear your replay of the same TikTok for the sixth consecutive time.
If you’re having your iPad-baby time and falling into the time loop that is watching Instagram reels — wear headphones. No one wants to hear what you’re listening to.
With everything said, living with people requires setting boundaries. Try your best to prioritize mature conversations and a healthy environment.
