Having roommates during college can be a way to make friends that will last a lifetime or it can be a nightmare. In the past we have seen both situations. There are a few rules that you can follow that will make any college roommate experience better.
1.TALK ABOUT MONEY UPFRONT.
If you live in college dorms this probably won't be as big of deal but if you are living in a house off-campus or in other student housing talking about finances is a must. Many problems between roommates can be be avoided by simple talking about who is going to pay the utilities, how much is each person going to pay for general living expenses such as garbage bags, cleaning supplies etc. Many roommate situations can turn bad very quickly when items like this aren't brought up early!
2. RESPECT PRIVATE SPACE.
Living with roommates anywhere you can get really up close and personal many aspects in each others lives. This can be from sharing a bathroom, kitchen and even a room, Make sure that you respect the space of your roommate. Don't borrow ANYTHING without asking, even if you are "good friends". Borrowing without asking can start with clothing, and food but most of the time it ends in resentment towards the roommate that is doing all the borrowing.
3. GOLDEN RULE.
"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" It is very important that you follow this very old advice. Cleaning up common areas of the apartment without being asked is a great way to create an awesome roommate experience. Other acts of service can be taking out the garbage, cleaning your roommates dishes, making them food(cookies, dinner, etc.) Once again remember to respect the private space of your roommate I would recommend not cleaning up their room and other areas they may not want you to be.
Keeping these three simple rules will make good roommate situations great and bad roommate situations better!