Roommate Success Tips
Communicate
Other than a spouse, there is probably no other person in the world you will get to know as well as your roommate. Even if you bond instantly, there may be moments when your roommate’s little quirks get on your nerves. Letting things fester can turn an annoyance into a misery. Communication - both talking and listening - will be the key to a great relationship.
Stuff
Less is more. By the time you've managed to fit in two beds, a computer, CD-changer, and TV, will there be any room for clothes, not to mention a few books? There is no way you are going to duplicate, 100% all the comforts of home. The less you bring, the less you have to keep track of and maintain.
Borrowing
Rule #1: Don't. Rule #2: If you absolutely must borrow something, always ask permission first. Return it in the promised timeframe and in the condition, it was in when borrowed. If you damage or lose something you borrow, you are responsible for replacing it. Can't afford to replace it? See rule #1. Nothing causes more strife between roommates and friends than borrowing - money, food, clothes, CDs, and sports equipment.
Neatness
If the law of averages works, one of you will be extremely neat and the other extremely messy. Here is where you learn the great art of communication and compromise. Mom doesn't live here, but you do. The neat one will have to learn to tolerate life's imperfections. The messy one, well, it's time to start picking up after yourself.
Lights Out
It's inevitable. One of you will have an 8 AM class and the other will want to study until 2 AM. Work out routines for late-night studying (is there a lounge?), late-night returns (tiptoe and use a flashlight), and early morning classes (tiptoe out and dress in the bathroom). Everyone needs their zzz's.
Quiet Time
All residence halls have quiet hours. Loud music, or socializing in the hall will not be appreciated by your fellow corridor-mates and are a one-way ticket to unpopularity.
Irreconcilable Differences
When the course of rooming does not run smooth, seek counsel. But remember, not liking your roommate does not grant you a room change. This is college and you will meet people from many different backgrounds.