It's normal to be anxious about living with roommates. Try to keep in mind that even if you and your roommates do not instantly become best friends, a relationship will develop over time. Sharing an apartment or room with someone new requires patience, compromise, and open communication. Some helpful tips for developing good roommate relationships include:

1. Set up and decorate your apartment together. You do not have to sacrifice your individuality; but anything from posters to music, even plants can be mutually appealing.

2. Establish ground rules. How long is it okay to stay on the phone? How loud is too loud for the stereo, tv, etc. when someone is in bed or studying?

3. Remember to ask before you borrow something. Never assume what is your roommate's is yours...including food.

4. Work together to share space. One of the toughest adjustments is finding a place to put your things.  If you cannot fit everything into your allotted space (drawers, closet, under the bed), send things home or find a nearby storage facility.

5. Share duties.  Who is going to empty the trash? Who will vacuum or dust? Clean up after yourself. Wash your own dishes, clothes, and sheets. Make your bed and pick up your clothes on a regular basis.

6. Be courteous. Introduce your roommates to your friends and family. Try to include them in your social activities if possible. Be sure to notify them if you're going out of town.

7. See what you have in common. Discuss parents, siblings, home town, past jobs, hobbies, or favorite foods.

8. Share your differences. Your personality, beliefs, nationality, skin color, and interests might be different than your roommate's. Use this opportunity to learn, grow, and develop an open mind.

9. Communicate. Even the most well-matched roommates sometimes find themselves in conflict. If a problem comes up, let your roommate know how you feel, and nip misunderstandings in the bud.

10. Talk to your Resident Assistant/Collegiate Housing Representative. If a situation arises that you feel is beyond your ability to deal with independently, ask your RA to act as a mediator.

Adapted from "Surviving the Roommate," Off To Campus 2002