Roommate Etiquette: How to Be the Best Roommate This School Year

Moving into a dorm is one of the biggest changes that come with starting at IMSA. Along with new classes, new routines, and plenty of late-night conversations, you’re also learning how to share a space with someone else. Whether you’re living with a close friend or meeting your roommate for the first time, the little things you do every day can make a huge difference.

Being a good roommate doesn’t mean you have to become best friends. It’s really about communication, consideration, and making sure both people feel comfortable in their own room. Here are a few ways to start the year on the right foot.

1. Set expectations early

One of the easiest ways to avoid awkward situations later is to talk about them early. Figure out things like cleaning, guests, borrowing belongings, lights, and study or sleep schedules. You don’t need a formal roommate constitution, but knowing what each person expects can prevent a lot of unnecessary arguments.

2. Ask before borrowing

Even if something looks like it’s just sitting there, it doesn’t automatically mean it’s up for grabs. Ask before borrowing your roommate’s clothes, food, chargers, or other belongings. If they let you borrow something, return it in the same condition you found it. Trust is built through small things like this.

3. Remember that your roommate has a life outside the room

Your room might feel like your personal space, but it’s shared. Give your roommate a heads-up before bringing friends over, especially if you know they’re studying or trying to sleep. The same goes for calls, music, and other activities that might affect the room.

4. Respect different schedules

Not everyone has the same sleep schedule, study habits, or definition of “quiet.” One person might be ready to sleep at 10 p.m. while the other is still finishing an assignment. Talk about what works for both of you instead of assuming your routine is automatically the standard.

5. Don’t let small problems pile up

If something is bothering you, bring it up respectfully instead of letting it build until you’re frustrated. A simple “Hey, could we try doing this differently?” is usually much easier than having a huge argument after weeks of annoyance. Communication early on can save both of you a lot of stress.

6. Actually spend some time together

You don’t have to force a friendship, but doing something together every once in a while can make the room feel much more comfortable. Take a walk around campus or down Access Road, grab food, play Uno, or just hang out after a long day of classes. Some of the best roommate memories come from completely unplanned moments.

7. Give each other grace

Nobody is going to be a perfect roommate. You’ll both forget things, have stressful days, and occasionally get on each other’s nerves. That’s part of learning to live with someone else. Be willing to apologize, compromise, and move forward.

At the end of the day, being a good roommate is less about having the perfect room or following a perfect set of rules and more about making your roommate feel respected. Your roommate may become one of your closest friends or simply someone you learn to live alongside, and either experience can teach you a lot about communication and independence. Your roommate experience is what you make of it!