Every fall brings a burst of new energy to college campuses. Students are buzzing with excitement as they leave their hometowns, make new friends, and embark on new experiences.
Social media has become a key way to connect with your roommate before move-in day. Finding your roommate on Instagram or X (formerly known as twitter) is not uncommon. Engaging in these platforms allows you to discuss preferences, coordinate move-in details, and get to know each other a bit before you meet in person. This early connection can help make the transition to college life smoother and start building a positive roommate relationship from the get-go.
While today’s digital age allows for virtual introductions, this isn’t always possible for everyone. The initial introduction can cause an overwhelming feeling like excitement, anxiety, or a sense of worry. After all, meeting on Facetime is definitely not the same as in person. In person, you’re able to get that one-on-one connection and build an authentic rapport. The good news is that, when you do meet your roommate you two will have the ability to foster a great connection.
Here are a few recommendations from Solange Hackshaw, a former Resident Assistant at Boston University and Raquel Goddard, a former Resident Advisor at Sarah Lawerence College that may help with a positive experience with your new roommate this fall semester.
Set Clear Boundaries
After you’re all moved in and settled, take some time to get to know your roommate. Spend some time chatting about important topics like “What is your cleaning routine?”or “What are your expectations around inviting guests over?” and “Do you have a preferred study schedule?” By asking these questions early on, you allow the both of you to foster a healthy bond which will allow you to feel comfortable in your shared space.
Prioritize Healthy Communication
Effective communication is crucial for maintaining positive relationships, especially with a roommate. Direct communication minimizes misunderstandings, reduces conflicting messages, and lowers the potential for conflict. Clear expectations and early practice in communication can prevent resentment and foster a healthy, positive relationship. To ensure constructive and productive interactions, practice active listening, maintain a respectful tone, and stay open to feedback.
Have Consideration for Eachother
“Be very Demure and very mindful.” No seriously, respect each other’s personal space and belongings. If you want to have your new campus crush over, let your roommate know in advance. Don’t be that person who always has guests without a heads-up as this can cause unwanted tension.Keep noise levels down, clean up after yourself, and respect each other’s study time to keep the peace.
If an issue arises, take the initiative to have a conversation. Approaching the problem without judgment is always the best place to start, Goddard told Girls-United. “Maybe the issue is that the person is incredibly extroverted and frequently has people over. You shouldn’t judge them for that. Likewise, you can’t judge a person for being more introverted and not often wanting people in their space. Roommates can come from vastly different households, which can make living together especially tricky”
Be Open-Minded
Adapting to a new roommate’s routines and lifestyle can be challenging, but it’s essential for a smooth living experience. Spend time getting to know each other during the first week to identify areas where you can be flexible and find common ground. A positive attitude and willingness to compromise will help both of you adjust more easily to living together.
Explore Campus Together
The beginning of the semester is a great time to explore campus events and activities with your roommate.Inviting them to join you in these activities can help the two of you get to know eachother better. You’ll be able to learn if you both have common interests which will help with making conversation less awkward in the living space. Have fun together, you won’t get this time back.
Tamieka Welsh is a NYC based health, wellness and lifestyle writer. Her work has been featured in P.S. (formerly PopSugar), MindBodyGreen and more. When she is not writing, you can find her exploring different coffee shops in Brookl