Meeting somebody new can be an exciting experience, but let’s face it, meeting somebody new that you’ll be living in tight quarters with for the next nine months can be a life changing and downright terrifying experience. The two of you could become best friends instantly or settle into a painfully awkward routine of that half smirk and quiet hello as you pass each other in the snugness that is the college dorm room.
We all know how it starts. “What’s your name, where are you from, and what’s your major?” In between each question you’ll smile, nod and add those unnecessary side comments about how much you can relate to each other over the smallest things. Nobody enjoys that cringe-worthy small talk and absolutely nobody wants it to last for two brutal semesters. Why not make the most of it and dig a little deeper to connect with your roommate? Take a shot at these five tips to ensure a unique bond between you and any of your roommates this school year.
####1. Go shopping for your dorm or apartment####
Living in your own space can be both nerve-wracking and exhilarating all at once. This is your chance to create your own living space. Your mom won’t be by your side in Bed Bath & Beyond directing which canvas to put above your bed or what desk accessories you need. Meeting up with your roommate beforehand can be an excellent way to bond and not have to do all of these tasks on your own. Freshman Jessie Myer believes shopping together makes the process less mundane and much more enjoyable.
“The way you decorate your dorm says a lot about you and your roommate’s personality, and getting to shop with them is an easy way to bond over similar styles and the future fun to come that fall,” Myer said.
####2. Find a similar interest####
It is so easy to ask what your roommate is interested in, but try exploring new things to see if you are interested in his or her favorite things too. Not only is this a great way to get to know your roommate, but you could learn a little something about yourself along the way. This could be anything from going with your roommate to watch the new movie he or she has been dying to see or joining him or her for a walk at their favorite park. Columbia boasts over some of Missouri’s most beautiful parks such as Stephens Lake Park and the Cosmopolitan Recreation Area. Make it a mission to discover your favorite. College is all about new activities, so don’t be afraid to step outside of the box and try something past your comfort zone.
####3. Pick a Netflix series to watch together####
Netflix: the only thing many people think keeps them sane. You know those shows you binge watch in the middle of the night when you can’t sleep? Or your go-to series that you’ve already watched seven times but you’d rather start again than actually study. Find a new one for you and your roommate to keep up with together. Watching that new episode will give you quality time in each other’s company along with much needed entertainment and relaxation outside of classes. You could even recommend a series that you love to watch for him or her to try.
####4. Hit up a class at MizzouRec####
Working out with somebody is a great way to get to know them. Through sweaty reps and water breaks, interesting conversation is sure to ensue. It’s a great time to catch up on your roommate’s happenings and get in shape. Sounds like a win-win! If the two of you are both into fitness, you could also share workout routines to keep the gym interesting. MizzouRec will even be having their Fitness Programs Free Week August 20-26 where students can enjoy a week of free MizzouRec Services and Facilities. This will include the TigerX classes, Clark’s Boxing Gym and Scrogg’s Peak available for use. Take advantage and find a class you and your roommate would enjoy together. Motivating each other will get that support system flowing that you can carry into activities outside of the gym too.
####5. Communicate, communicate, communicate####
As the saying goes, communication is key. Junior Ben Schnelle believes this is especially true for roommates.
“I’d recommend talking about any issues that could come up before they happen,” Schnelle said.
Be sure to lay down the law, so to speak, with your roommate in a polite manner. Talk through personal schedules. Are you okay with your roommate coming in with Taco Bell at 3 a.m. on a weeknight? How about playing music out loud while studying? Try to find a fair solution for any disagreements ahead of time to minimize any future arguments. If problems do arise during the school year, do not be afraid to confront your roommate about them. You always want things to be as open as possible.
As useful as these tips are, just know that not everybody is meant to be best friends with their roommate. Be sure to branch out and meet people from different Residence Halls to maximize a variety of social opportunities. Talk to an Involvement Ambassador on campus to learn about different clubs and organizations you can be part of. Schnelle believes that whether you stick around with your roommate or just become casual acquaintances, you can benefit from these tricks of the trade in the long run.
“You’ll learn many lessons about getting along with someone, and you’ll carry those lessons with you, and that in itself is great,” Schnelle said.
_Edited by Alexandra Sharp | asharp@themaneater.com_