How to be a Good Roommate? Let Me Count the Ways.

You don't have a clue if your roommate is a Literature student, if he (or she) is struggling on how to start an essay. You notice your other coursemate, who is often daydreaming (or so you think). The term has started, but it seems that he (or she) is handling paper writing well. You have seen other students, and you haven't think about becoming good friends with them. They can drive you crazy as well, but it won't happen if you go with the flow. But how can you be a good roommate.

It's not difficult to spot a laid-back student, who is likely to mention the beach every sentence or two. You heard a couple of your coursemates doing a book critique, which you're not expecting at all. You're aspiring for a study-life balance, which would happen if you're a good roommate. You might be too young to be perceptive about quirks, but it won't take long to figure out a defining trait or two. Furthermore, pressure can put anyone in an uncomfortable position. You have experienced it when you're proofreading your application essay, trying too hard to recall the common writing mistakes. You have learned from the lessons, but your roommate would be your priority at the moment. After all, your relationship could affect your attitude towards the coursework.

You won't be surprised if someone talks in his (or her) sleep. You also wonder if there's a roommate who would be thoughtful of inviting everyone to a party (and a round of beer and pizza). If you want a positive outcome, you must adopt a positive mindset. How do you approach this roommate business?

5 Ways on How to Get Along With Your Roommate

Get to know your roommate better. There will be a silent roommate, if not too introvert that require constant nudging on your part. One could be a borrower, which may annoy you in the shortest time. And there would be another one who would turn out to be the master in procrastination. You won't discover these personalities if you don't strike a conversation. It hardly matters if you're the kind of teenager who likes solitude. (You might need it more when you're about to be overwhelmed with assignments.) You will need company sooner or later.

Try to be considerate of your roommates. If you share a kitchen and bathroom, you must ensure that you keep it clean and orderly. Someone puts his (or her) worst foot forward, which you didn't like at all. It would be a relief, as you don't have to play the guessing game one more time. There will be mistakes on both sides, so try to be forgiving of others. It would include you as well.

Always be mindful of personal space. You would know whenever someone is procrastinating (to beat a deadline). If someone is reading a book, then there's nothing wrong about asking about the title. And you must know your cue when you spot your roommate absorb in conversation. There are more instances, which you should have seen during your short time (in the university). It doesn't hurt to be polite in such situations.

Reach out. You can't wait for your roommate to invite you to a party, if not ask you to join a study group. It can also be a lunch out, if not a game of bowling. These activities should break the ice between you, as well as foster camaraderie that you would need later. Someone would have problem(s) relating to the coursework. It could also be you as well. This would be the distraction that you need (whenever you need a break from assignment writing or studying for an examination).

Help out. Aside from keeping the kitchen and rest room clean and orderly, you can empty the trash bin. You won't have second thoughts about helping a roommate in arranging his (or her) things alone. It could be the homework (if you happen to pursue the same course). Don't worry too much about the time lost, as the favor would be returned sooner or later.

Ground Rules to Keep the Peace

It's important to set some ground rules, which must be done right now. You don't want any disagreement, which could disturb you during those busy months. It should ensure that nothing would be lost in the kitchen. You would agree that your roommate could throw out the bin. And there would be a healthy argument if certain things don't go to plan. If you have issues, don't hesitate to talk about it. Don't go it publicly, though.

It's very important to have a two-way discussion. You should avoid any form of resentment (if it ever happens). After all, you're looking for lifelong friend(s), and you might be looking at your roommate. Go ahead and make that move.