Meeting your roommate(s) is at once the most stressful and
exciting event of your first few days in college. First
impressions mean everything and they mean nothing; at your first
meeting, you may believe you have found your soulmate or that you
have made a mortal enemy. But chances are, the relationship will
be a little more complicated and your feelings will be a little
more ambivalent.
Remember that little questionaire in your admissions packet?
You know the one that you thought asked really personal
questions? If you blew it off or treated it like a joke, the joke
will probably be on you. College do their level best to match
students up with like-minded students. Be as truthful and honest
as possible. You may not become best friends, but you don't want
to end up with a roommate who sits in the dark watching
Laverne & Shirley reruns all night long.
Be Respectful
Respecting each other, and each other's little quirks, will go
a long way in building a working relationship with your roommate.
If he or she is studying for a big exam, give them a break with
the music, etc. If there is a problem, confront it quickly.
Letting something fester for too long can cause irreparable
damage. Keep the lines of communication open.
People often have high expectations when it comes to
roommate(s); they are expecting an instant best friend, a
constant companion, or someone to eat with in the dining hall.
And that actually may be kind of what it's like for the first few
weeks. Soon, though, each of you will start to meet other people
through classes, become involved with activities, and see each
other progressively less. Most students get along great with
their roommates; in fact, many form life-long friendships. The
important thing to remember is that, as with any, your
relationship with your roommate will develop and change as you
get to know each other.