Welcome (back) to MSU!!! Its been a bit chaotic lately with
everyone moving in so hopefully you feel comfortable in your new surroundings.
As an RA again I've spent a lot of time this past week helping freshman feel
settled in. In fact, a lot of freshman have moved in with a roommate they never
knew before this week on top of finding themselves in all new surroundings, Therefore I figured I
would offer a few tips on living with a roommate. I promise I will try to avoid
the generic ones.
1. Speak your mind
In my experience, one of the easiest traps people fall into
is holding in their thoughts. They get upset that their roommate never takes
out the trash or leaves his shoes in the shower but instead of communicating
with their roommate they let it bottle up. Then the small stuff adds up, issues
escalate, and things get out of hand. Remember they have no way of knowing that
you have a problem with their behavior until you speak your mind.
2. Don't force a friendship
A lot of people move in with their roommate and decide that
they have to be friends. They dream of the incredible relationships tv
roommates build together and hope for the same. They think the only way they
will get along is if they do everything together and have common interests
everything will work out. the truth is it isn't necessary to be friends to be
great roommates. If it happens, great! But don't force it, be yourself.
3. Fill out a roommate contract NOW
Don't wait. A lot of freshman meet their new roommate and
think "He's cool, no way we are going to have a problem." Hopefully
you are right, but when you are wrong, and you have no established boundaries
or rules, it makes conflict resolution just that much harder. It is important
to have these conversations early with your roommate so you can be on the same
page all year.
4. Start watching Breaking Bad together
Okay so this one isn't really necessary but still comes
highly recommended. In reality I don't think there are more than 3 real keys to
having a successful relationship with your roommate. As long as you communicate
your needs, cooperate, and work together to share the room there really isn't a
conflict you can't handle together. If you need a moderator in a discussion
that gets a little heated hit up your RA, that's what they are there for. So
really, kick back, watch the best show on Television and have an awesome
semester!!
