The Truth about College Roommates

Starting university is scary, more so if you are moving away from home for the first time. Whether you’ve decided to go with a cheap or luxury student accommodation or are going to be living abroad on campus or in private halls, we at University Living have compiled a list of friendly reminders that will help you ease into sharing space with roommates at college.

You are all in the Same Boat.

You may be feeling apprehensive or anxious about living in shared accommodation but rest assured that others are feeling the exact same thing. It is a new experience for everyone involved, and there is no perfect way to go about it. You may not get on with your roommate or you might get on brilliantly, the only way to find out is to do it! Reach out to those in your accommodation and make yourself known — it shows you are eager to introduce yourself in a friendly way.

No Two Roommates are Alike.

This is particularly important if you are going to be living in with more than one person. You will have messy, loud, quiet, funny or annoying roommates. Everyone is different but there will be a common denominator to bind you together. You may be on the same course of study or have similar interests in music and books. If you really do not get along, there are several things that can be done to ease your anxieties and defuse the tension. If all else fails, bring out the booze!

Sharing is Not Easy.

Living in close proximity with strangers will take a while to get used to. Your roommates will come and go at different times, they may have loud friends over or leave the kitchen messy. Whatever be their nature, it is important to lay some ground rules at the beginning but also to be graciously accommodating in the same way you would back home. Give others plenty of notice if you are having friends over or have a big exam to revise for and need some peace and quiet. Compromises are important when it comes to living with a roommate for the first time — remember you are in this together.

It’s all about the Experience.

Sharing space with others will help you discover new things about yourself and work out your personal boundaries as a happy bonus! All of this will put you in good stead for the future, especially if you decide to house share with friends or stay on in your accommodation after the first year of study.

There will be late nights, early morning lectures, arguments and resolutions with your roommates but these are what make up your college experience. You might become best friends with your roommates or end up practicing superhuman patience. Whichever category you fall into, sharing space with fellow students is guaranteed to make your student experience an interesting affair.

Written by Rebecca Yeomans