Most of us have been fortunate enough to have had our own rooms for almost all of our lives.  Now you’re about to head off to college and you realize not only are you expected to share a room, but the room is about the size of a large closet.  So what can you do to make this transition period easy for you and your new roommate?

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• Start with trying to choose a roommate that fits your living needs.  This may not always be your best friend you’ve known forever.  Sometimes a person who makes a good friend, doesn’t make a good roommate.  So find out living habits and quirks and decide on a roommate that has qualities you can live with.
• Roommate contracts are essential to living peacefully.  Draft up ideas of what each of you expect and what needs to be negotiated so you can both reach a happy agreement.
• Always be polite and respectful to each other.  Sometimes it may be harder than others, but it’s very important to maintain mutual respect.
• Whenever a conflict may arise, address is as soon as possible and in a respectful manner.  Talking about things is the fastest way to work them out.
• While the person you live with may not end up being your very best friend, there are steps you can take to maintain a friendly environment.  Ask how a test went, bring back a snack, decorate for his/her birthday, or do a small holiday gift.  Keep the peace!

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Although sharing space with someone doesn’t sound ideal, find what works for you and it won’t be as much of a nightmare as you thought.

Photos by:  DC Manley and texas_echoe15 on flickr.com