 |
| Image Source: notadamandsteve.com |
It is often necessary to live with a roommate, given financial realities. But cohabitation with a difficult person is challenging. Luckily, there are a few simple tricks that a student can do to make life easier.
 |
| Image Source: washingtonpost.com |
Start with a clean slate. It is best to avoid any misconception or misunderstanding in circumstances that might make the roommate feel inferior or inadequate. Keep suggestions for room improvement or decorations as friendly as possible. If the roommate displays unhealthy or unwanted behavior after a decent time period, then address the issue civilly and without allocating blame. If it is the roommate who acts superior and distributes tasks unfairly, again, take it up with him or her in a diplomatic manner. Explain using facts, not feelings.
 |
| Image Source: hercampus.com |
Avoid living with friends. This seems counterintuitive; but the thing is, friends are better off not sharing the same roof. This is because friends are more comfortable than strangers in stepping over boundaries and taking certain liberties. Sometimes, this can put stress on the relationship and cause the friendship to turn sour. The most successful roommates are generally friends of friends, that is, people who come recommended, but with whom the student is not so intimately familiar.
Ultimately, the most sound advice would be to trust instincts, and work from there. Most students are around their 20s or 30s, and should already have a solid moral compass. This will point them to the current or potential roommate who would suit them.
The Reserve Apartments in Tyler, TX helps prepare students for college life with affordable housing options. Learn more about college living by visiting this website.
