Directions for the college athlete

At just 17 or 18 years old the only roommate you have ever had was probably one of your siblings. The fact is that most college freshmen will live with a complete stranger for the first time.

I’m sure you’ve heard your fair number of success and horror stories about roommate living, but the way in which you interact is entirely determined by each pair. Think about it…you are two or three strangers thrown together in a space the size of a cubicle.

You can treat each other in one of two ways. First you can decide to live in harmony by respecting one another and enjoy your cozy den…or you can make each other’s lives a living hell and make your room feels like a rat cage.

Communicating Boundaries

To avoid the road to rat cage-dom it is important to learn about each other’s quirks,habits, boundaries, and schedules. Open communication early on is the best way to promote a healthy relationship. You need to discuss personal issues that you or your roommate(s) are sensitive to.

Maybe you just can stand it when someone wears their shoes in your room…instead of holding in your aggravation, just let the other person know in a polite way. Addressing small problems as they arise will help prevent outbursts or fits that come from suppressed annoyances.

These early discussions will often lead to agreeable perimeters. While these “rules” are helpful they will not be useful in every situation. You should make new adjustments as problems arise.

*Note: Just because your roommates with someone doesn’t mean that they’re your new built in BFF. Make sure to get to know your roommate and give them space so that you don’t get sick of each other.

Useful Tips

• Fill out your roommate questionnaire carefully. If you write that you don’t drink or smoke and you go to bed around 9 p.m. they might just pair you up with a grandma. (That’s a joke…grandma’s don’t usually live in dorms, but hey you never know).
• Call or email one another about what furniture or electronics that you are bringing. There is no need for two TVs, two couches, or two kitchen tables!
• Buy a calendar and message board. This will help you guys stay in touch when your schedules don’t over lap.
• Make sure you talk to your HA or RA if you are having any issues adjusting to dorm life. They are there to help, but if you have a problem with your roommate(s) try and talk with them first.