For a lot of freshman students, living in the dorms is their first experience with communal living and sharing a room. This new style of living can be a shock at first, but with time and these tips, you’ll be a pro at dorm life in no time!
1. Your RA is there to help.
If your roommate won’t stop bringing guys over at all hours of the night or won’t agree with you on how to split up fridge space, talk to your RA! They can help mediate any problems you’re having, and can write up a roommate agreement to be signed that outlines basic rules for living together. But your RA isn’t there only to diffuse issues with your roommate, they are there to take care of any problem or question you may have. Need help with homework? They can point you in the direction of your Academic Resource Coordinator or connect you with someone that can tutor you. Want to know the best study spots on campus? They’ll have a few ideas. It’s their job to help you out, so don’t be afraid to use them!
2. Leave your door open.Â
Whenever you’re in your room just watching TV or hanging out with friends, leave your door propped open! People passing by your dorm will at the very least say hi, if not stop and chat for a while. You can make so many friends in your building this way, and the social opportunities you are exposed to grow exponentially.
3. Keep the bathrooms as clean as possible.Â
No one wants to step on discarded toilet paper or brush their teeth in a sink filled with someone else’s hair. If you make a mess, clean it up, and if you need supplies that aren’t readily available, talk to your RA or the desk attendant. They can get you what you need and the custodian won’t have to spend extra time on your bathroom.Â
4. It’s okay to get out or stay in.
If you can’t focus on doing your homework while your roommate is in the room, don’t be afraid to head to the basement or library for some quiet time. Or, if you don’t want to go out even though it seems like EVERYBODY is, take the time in your room for yourself. Settle in bed early with Netflix and chocolate, and treat yourself to some much needed rest and relaxation.
5. Home is only a phone call away.
If, like me, you find yourself getting homesick (or boyfriend-sick), remember that you can pick up the phone and call anyone from home you may miss. They’re also only a text away, and you can stay connected on social media with high school friends and more distant relatives. Even if you’re having a blast and don’t miss your family, your parents would appreciate a text every once in a while.
Living in the dorms can be an amazing experience if you’re prepared to let go of a little bit of privacy and embrace all of the crazy things happening on your floor!