When people talk about their college experiences, there are many factors that encompass this crazy time in one’s life. Classes, friends and sporting events are definite highlights. However, the topic that seems to be a constant forefront, whether talked about in a good or bad way, is the topic of roommates. There is no doubt that living with other people can be one of the biggest challenges that a college student faces. But have no fear, there are many positives to having roommates as well as many things that you and your roommate can do to make the positives outweigh the negatives.

While it always seems that there are mixed feelings about having roommates, there are so many aspects of living with other people that will only enhance your college experience like not constantly being alone, having someone to lend a hand and possibly even making lifelong friends. The constant feeling of being alone can take its toll on anyone, so having an extra person or two around most of the time can bring one a sense of comfort. Getting used to “living on your own” can be hard, especially in the loneliness department which is something that roommates can definitely help with. Whether you live on or off campus, there is always something that needs to be done or something that needs to be fixed in your house, apartment or dorm. Having those extra hands around can make the biggest difference in the world when trying to take care of what seem like simple tasks that as we all know, can turn into the biggest challenges. Roommates can also be very helpful when it comes to any school-related or personal issues you are facing. One of the best parts of living with other people is the fact that most of the time you are never alone, so you always have someone to confide in. If you happen to be compatible with your roommates, then you just may end up making some great friends. Many people start their college journey getting to know the people they are living with, and graduate knowing that those same people will be their forever friends. 

There is absolutely no doubt that living with other people can be one of the most challenging parts of college. However, if you and your roommates practice mutual respect and communication, everyone wins. There are many simple things that roommates can do to ensure that everyone is living in a positive environment and in this case, communication is key. Having the ability to openly speak with one another about issues and important topics will make the biggest difference in the type of living environment that you all will be a part of. Simple things such as picking up after yourself, offering to wash dishes and taking turns to take out the trash will put you on a path for not only a healthy living situation, but also healthy relationships between roommates. If one person is putting forth more effort than another in aspects of living, such as cleaning, this can start a chain reaction of negativity that will only make it harder for everyone to coexist peacefully and be friendly with each other. It is always of the utmost importance to ensure that everyone in your living arrangement is contributing equally so that everyone can live in a positive, comfortable and healthy environment. 

There are so many positive benefits that come from living with roommates. You always have someone around to lend a hand or maybe a piece of advice, and if you’re lucky enough you may even make some lifelong friends along the way. College can be the most fun, stressful and exciting time of your life, and if everyone practices mutual respect and communication, having roommates will only make your experience even more amazing.