Aaliyah Pearson

Coping with College Life:Dealing with Your Roommate

Humidity, different people, food, schedule, clubs, parties, pressure, influence. How easy do you juggle? Coping with college life is a big responsibility. Despite the fact that this is costing more than our parents see in a year or even two, we continue to face challenges that have nothing to do with our financial obligations. Things like hair styles that can sustain the heat, or staying abreast of the new fashion trends even when our college pockets prohibit us from doing so, or bigger issues such as choosing a major, or staying on schedule with assignments and extracurricular activities. Not to mention the issues of substance like missing your friends and family. Transitions are an inevitable part of life, how you deal with them is a testament to your character.

One of the biggest transitions faced when moving into college is living arrangements. Having a roommate for some people could be like living with a hurdle posted in front of your door, jumping over it is the only way in and the only way out. You have to adapt to a strangers habits, likes, dislikes, expectations and characteristics. However, in all fairness your roommate is faced with the same task. In order to gain a better understanding I did an interview with a set of Clark Atlanta University Roommates, Justice Mcdonald and Armoni Martin.

What were your expectations in regard to having a roommate?

Armoni: I just wanted her to not be filthy

Justice: I was hoping that she would be respectful.

Were your expectations met?

Armoni: My expectations were over met, If that makes any sense. I was very pleasantly surprised because we formed such a strong bond.

Justice: Yes

How has having a roommate changed you?

Justice: It has made me more aware of other people feelings. It has also made me responsible because I consider her in whatever I do.

Armoni: Same

Are you glad you have one? Are glad to have the one you have?

Armoni: yes because I always wanted to have someone to share things with. Until now I never had a bestfriend.

Justice: yes because I am not lonely. We are on the same level , we understand eachother..you know what I mean?

What do you dislike about your roommate?

Armoni: She bites her fingernails, always corrects me, and she like to play mind games with me.

Justice: she drinks out of the bottle, she doesnt wash her dishes and she eats in the bed.

What would you recommend for someone who is going to have a roommate?

Armoni: Be very clear with one another about what you like and dislike. Let each other know the kinds of things that you cant tolerate.

Justice: cut right to the important stuff as soon as you meet. Just really get to know each other.

How have you coped with sharing living quarter?

Armoni: I dont cope

Justice: I just pay attention to what she says

Although Armoni and Justice had a smooth transition when it came to moving in with each other, situations like this are not always this smooth. However, whether your transition was as rewarding as theirs was or not it is still very important to pay attention to the ways they operate. A common theme throughout the interview was respect and consideration. These are two concepts that are important and beneficial in any productive and healthy relationship. The next time you and your roommate are on the verge of a disagreement remember RESPECT AND CONSIDERATION.