What To Coordinate With Your College Roommate Now

Moving into college is an exciting time, but it can also be a little overwhelming. Perhaps one of the most stressful parts is packing up all of your stuff for your move. Whether you are rooming with a total stranger or you're sharing a room with your very best friend, there are definitely a few things to coordinate with your roommate ahead of time.

When you move away to college, it's likely the first time you'll be living away from home. So, it's understandable that you'll want a lot of the comforts of home with you. But, you need to keep in mind that you'll be sharing a room that's smaller than a lot of jail cells, and your roommate is going to need room for her stuff too. Cozy, right?

The last thing you want to do is start the year off with conflict or a disagreement. So, before move-in day even arrives, take the time to talk over all of the details with your new roommate. Sure, it might be a little uncomfortable at first — especially if you've never met your roommate before. But, it will save you a lot of headaches in the long run.

Not sure what things you need to discuss? I've got you covered! Here are five things you should coordinate with your new college roommate ahead of time.

1. Who's bringing what

This is probably one of the most important things things that absolutely needs to be determined before moving in. Whether your roommate is local and can meet up with you for a coffee date, or you need to send them an introductory Facebook message, you definitely need to talk about who is going to be bringing what.

You're going to want things like a TV, microwave, futon, and coffee maker. But, since dorm space is tight, you're obviously not going to need two of each. So, talk about the things you already have, and what you're planning on purchasing. This will make sure you have everything that you need, without stuffing your room to the gills. Also, be sure to mention anything you're bringing that you're not willing to share — just to clear the air right away.

2. Space and furniture

Sure, all dorm rooms are small. But, there are still numerous ways you can arrange them. Are you each going to loft your bed, and then put your desk underneath? Would you prefer to have bunk beds, and then a shared space where you can study and relax? Are you both private people, and want to literally divide the entire room in half?

Whatever you decide to do is up to you and your roommate — just make sure that you're both in agreement. That way you can avoid the awkward dilemma of the first person to arrive making all of the arrangement decisions — and likely taking up most of the precious space.

3. Allergies

Allergies and medical conditions probably aren't high on your list of "get to know you" topics with your roommate. But, it's definitely important that you talk these things over. After all, you'd hate to show up with a bunch of great down-stuffed pillows only to find out that your roommate is allergic to feathers.

It's also important that you talk about any other medical conditions that might come up throughout the school year, in case your roommate might need to take care of things in an emergency. I totally get it — these conversations can be uncomfortable, and you don't want to freak your roommate out. But, being proactive and forthcoming is always better.

4. Routines

When you're sharing such a small space, it's helpful if your routines are at least somewhat compatible. While this isn't something that you need to have settled too far in advance, it's helpful to at least get a sense of each other's routines early on.

Perhaps your roommate is a total night owl when you tend to be an early riser. Or, maybe you like to study with tons of background noise, while your roommate needs it to be completely quiet. Whatever your differences are, it's better to have an understanding right off the bat. This will help you both be more respectful of your varying routines, and save plenty of drama down the road.

5. Basic ground rules

One of the best things about going away to college is escaping your parents' rules. So, it can be tempting to go hog wild, and live life with reckless abandon once you arrive at college. But, you need to keep in mind that you're still living with someone else who you need to be mindful of.

If either of you have any ground rules that you feel are super important, it's better to share those before even moving in. Maybe you don't want any other people in the room after 10 p.m. Or, maybe you have certain belongings that you just aren't OK with sharing. Get all of this out in the open right away. Either you'll have a heads up about things you need to be respectful of, or you can determine that you're just not a great fit for each other and request a change.

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