The Roommate.

Everyone's dreaded topic: the roommate. One of the scariest things about college is whether or not you will get along with your roommate. Well, it is a pretty terrifying aspect of college. But there are plenty of ways to make sure your year with your roommate will go smoothly.

Tip #1: Contact your roommate before school. This is crucial to making sure move in goes smoothly with your roommate. Make sure you try and coordinate who will bring what to the dorm. The worst thing would be having 2 of everything in such a small space. It's also a way to save yourself some money. Besides just talking about your room, try and get to know your roommate. Email or text each other every once in a while to check in. This allows you to feel a little more comfortable with your roommate when you move in.

Tip #2: Keep your patience. Living in a small space with another person is difficult even when you're best friends. There will be times that are frustrating and annoying. The best advice would be to try and avoid conflict. Try not to let everything bother you or get on your nerves. If they have some bad habits, try to learn to live with them. It's probable that you have bad habits that bother your roommate too.

Tip #3: Open communication between your roommate and yourself will help you from strangling each other throughout the year. Whenever something bothers you, don't hesitate to tell your roommate about it. It will not only get the pressure off of your back, it will allow your roommate to try and resolve the issue. If you do have a conflict with your roommate that the two of you cannot resolve, go to your Resident's Assistant. That's why they are there. Don't be afraid to go to them with any issues.

Remember, you may not become friends with your roommate right away. Friendships always take some time. Don't expect you and your roommate to be the best of friends two days after moving in. Also, don't be upset if your roommate and you don't become friends. It doesn't always happen. Keep in mind that they're experiencing all of the same emotions that you are, so try to be understanding.

Best regards,
The College Crew