02 Sep The Meg: Living With A Roommate

There are so many differences between the U.K and America (mannerisms, portion sizes, sport, etc.) but something I immediately had to get used to was sharing a room with another person. Luckily in my case, my best friend Meg also chose to do her study abroad at SFSU so I managed to avoid the shy introductions! However, I think it is something you really have to get used to, particularly as I have never had to share a room with anyone at university before. It is a great way to meet new people and make friends but there is no denying the initial awkwardness…

Here are some things I have come up with to navigate the trials and tribulations of living with a roommate (whether you knew them before or they are completely new to you!)

1. Get used to getting dressed quickly.

There is no denying everyone loves to sit in their towel and contemplate their day post bath or shower but I’m sorry to say, those days are behind you. Whether you take your clothes into the bathroom or use the two minutes your roommate is in the kitchen, you will be setting new records for how quickly you can be clothed from when your feet hit that bath mat.

2. Establish your space.

Roommates are the best. You can confide in them, get them to proof read your work (thanks, Meg) and have movie marathons with them from the comfort of your shared home. However, if you show any signs of weakness, they will claim your space. It will start with a clothes hanger appearing on your side of the wardrobe, or a shoe under your desk. Within a week, you will have forgotten ever having a desk of your own, whilst squeezing your jacket into the tiny bit of cupboard space you have left. Be vigilant people.

3. Make an effort

Your roommate might not be your favourite person throughout your time at university, but making a comfortable living situation for the both of you is really important. Find out how they live; whether they are messy, how loudly they play their music and when they eat their meals. I would say the most important thing is to create an open dialogue with them: if something bothers you, say it outright. There is nothing worse than letting awkwardness develop because you feel uncomfortable with their habits. Make sure you speak up in a respectful way.

4. Do things together as well as separately.

Bonding with your roommate and doing touristy things together can be so fun! Especially if you are from different  backgrounds, it is amazing to learn about each others cultures. Cook each other meals you would eat at home, experience American culture and explore together. As well as this, it is important to establish your own time and space in which you can be alone. Whether this is going for a walk, or simply plugging your headphones in, it is super important to switch off and have some ‘me’ time. Having a friend or a roommate constantly there can be a reason that you don’t always prioritise this, but relaxing and thinking through things is just as important as bonding.

I’ll keep you updated!

Grace x