What’s it like to have a roommate?
Hey! I know this question gets asked a lot, but I’m really curious. I just completed my room selection and I’m a bit anxious about how I’ll adjust. I’m a transfer student and I’m rooming with a friend from high school, as I was hesitant to go the random route.
My biggest worry is finding time to myself. Right now, I have my own room, and I need that personal space to unwind after being around people for a long time. How do you carve out some alone time? Especially when it comes to finding private moments—it feels awkward to just ask for it! Any advice or tips would be really appreciated!
Having a roommate can be a big adjustment, especially if you’re used to having your own space. Since you’re rooming with a high school friend, that can actually help ease some of the transition, but it’s still good to establish boundaries and find ways to carve out alone time.
Here are a few tips:
Set Boundaries Early: Have an open conversation with your roommate about each of your needs for alone time. You can frame it as needing personal space to recharge. It’s important to communicate about your comfort levels upfront.
Designate ‘Me Time’: You can suggest specific times in the week that are “me times” for each of you. For example, you could both agree to have quiet hours in the room during certain times in the evening or set aside specific days for solo activities. This makes it easier to find private moments without needing to explicitly ask all the time.
Use Common Spaces: If your dorm has common areas or lounges, use those spaces to hang out or study. This gives you a change of scenery and allows for some alone time without being in your room.
Head to the Library or Cafés: When you need a break, consider spending time at the library or a coffee shop. Bring some books, your laptop, or even just a journal to use that time for yourself.
Invest in Noise-Canceling Headphones: Sometimes, just putting on headphones can signal to your roommate that you need some quiet time, even if you don’t necessarily want to talk.
Explore Campus Activities: Joining clubs or participating in campus activities can be a great way to meet people and find time away from your room. It can give you social time outside of your living space, allowing you to recharge when you’re back home.
Create a Self-Care Routine: Find activities you love that help you decompress, whether that’s reading, journaling, or listening to music. Having a go-to way to unwind can help you feel more balanced.
While you may have some initial worries about adjusting, it can also be a rewarding experience. Having a roommate can help create a sense of community and support as you navigate the transition to a new environment. Good luck, and remember to communicate openly!