Freshman year can be scary. You're staying away from home for the first time! It's your first try at being an adult and there's lots of things to consider. Selecting where you will live and who you will live with on campus are the biggest choices you will make after choosing a major and a college. Thankfully, I was randomly matched with my best friend. We still had to have serious conversations, but I lucked out being paired with someone wonderful. Make it easier to select a kick-ass roommate by using these tips!
1. Search
The university may provide a search engine for you to find someone compatible, but you can also search on social media. Write out a few sentences about yourself and what you're looking for in a college roommate. Keep up with people that seem interested, and don't turn anyone away until you're positive you found your match!
2. Ask the important questions to make sure you're compatible.
After talking about your major and some interests, it's time to make sure your potential roomie and you will actually get along. Ask what their pet peeves are, what their sleep schedule is like, if they plan on outwardly breaking any rules. Learn about their interests and likes. It's much easier to ask deal-breaking questions beforehand.
3. Split the cost
Dorm shopping will be so much cheaper if you split things like disposable dishes, paper towels, and cleaning supplies. Big items, like televisions, carpets, and futons can be split to benefit everyone for a lot less!
4. Set boundaries
Don't be afraid to let your future roomie know what you expect. If you don't want guests on school nights, or you like lights out by 10 p.m. -- let them know! It will make communication easier.
5. Get to know each other
You want to make sure that you have the basis to be friends, too! Make friends with your roommate. That's one person you already can depend on freshmen year. It's much easier to live with a friend than a stranger.
6. Communicate
Let you roommate know when you'll be home, when the light is bothering you, or even when you might be stressed during a busy week. Be honest when your feelings are hurt or you're annoyed. Nobody can fix a problem they don't know about.
