Entering freshman year, many individuals in the incoming class have a preconceived notion that they will automatically click with their new roommate. The idea that living with a total stranger who they most likely know little information about slips their mind in a fashion similar to most mathematical equations. They are excited to begin this new chapter of life away from rules and standards expected of them back in their hometown. However, this isn’t the case for everyone.

I’m not best friends with my roommate.

I’m not saying that everyone who lives with someone else isn’t going to become best friends with them, but I think people shouldn’t be as hopeful with this notion. I met my first roommate through a random assignment. She was nice and I had high hopes that we would get along. I desired to find a few similarities so we would have a reason to hang out and get to know one another. Would I have liked to become best friends? Sure, but I am also not the type of person to limit myself when it comes to ways to acquire acquaintances.

My first roommate and I had a difficulty finding that one item we could bond over. We had a very limited amount of objects and activities in our lives that we shared, and I think that inhibited us from forming any sort of connection. Our schedules were both weird the first semester, so we rarely saw each other. When we did, it was usually when we were doing our homework in an awkward silence loud enough to be heard across the world.

Long story short, the two of us decided to switch roommates. I wouldn’t say it was the best decision I ever made, but it brings me some joy knowing that she has more fun with her current roommate. I don’t think a single person should keep one from having an awesome first year in college, and I am happy that she was able to find the person who will make living in the dorms a memorable experience. I would say I am happy with my current situation, too.

However, my new roommate and I are still not best friends.

Though the two of us have a lot in common and are able to laugh over the same stupid videos we find on social media applications, I wouldn’t classify her as the person who would have my back at the end of the day if anything horrendous were to happen and I was in need of someone. I think we all desire that, but I don’t think it’s something we find in our freshman year of college. I remember making a post on a platform stating that I wanted a roommate I could do everything with. My current roommate and I share a couple of classes, grab meals together, and hang out with our friend group. Outside of these activities, she has her life and I have mine. But unlike my previous roommate, I think that’s what makes our relationship work. We know enough to be friends but there is still a lot that is a mystery. I love living with her, and I am excited to see what adventures we take on next year in our apartment next year.

Is being best friends with your roommate a bad thing? Of course not. I have plenty of friends that attached to the hip with their dorm companion. If you aren’t best friends, that’s fine as well. There’s nothing wrong with either option. I’m thankful for the relationship I had with my first roommate because I was able to find things I am passionate about doing on campus with all the free time I had from not spending time together. I was able to meet friends in other organizations and clubs. With my current roommate, I would say the same thing. I only hope others accept the idea and come to the same conclusion.