The Student Room Group

How to handle relationships between college roommates?

I am a freshman who has just moved into the dormitory and is living with roommates. I have found that there are some differences and friction between me and my roommates, such as different living habits, schedules, etc. Because my roommates come from different countries or regions, their living habits, cultural backgrounds, etc., are different. These differences in lifestyle habits, schedules, etc., may lead to some disagreements and friction. I want to know how to handle these relationships to ensure a pleasant living environment with my roommates.

I hope to receive everyone's advice, or to share their anecdotes about dealing with such situations.
Thank you!!!

Reply 1

Hi Nicoleon,

I am sorry to hear that you are struggling to settle in with your flat mates. From personal experience I understand how hard it can be to live with people that you have not chosen to live with, especially if you have come from a variety of different backgrounds with schedules and habits that may clash and cause conflict.

I would suggest an app such as a shared calendar so you can all put your individual activities in for the whole group to view, also a group chat on Facebook or WhatsApp could prove useful. If your flat mates aren't too familiar with these apps you could also have an old fashioned sit around the table and create a physical calendar, this could also be a fun bonding activity to learn about what everybody enjoys to do and also to understand everybody's different lifestyles.

I hope this helps!

~Emily
University College Birmingham Student Ambassador

Reply 2

Original post by Nicoleon
I am a freshman who has just moved into the dormitory and is living with roommates. I have found that there are some differences and friction between me and my roommates, such as different living habits, schedules, etc. Because my roommates come from different countries or regions, their living habits, cultural backgrounds, etc., are different. These differences in lifestyle habits, schedules, etc., may lead to some disagreements and friction. I want to know how to handle these relationships to ensure a pleasant living environment with my roommates.
I hope to receive everyone's advice, or to share their anecdotes about dealing with such situations.
Thank you!!!

Hey there!

Dorm life can be a clash of cultures and habits! To create a smooth living space, have a friendly chat with your roommates about expectations for noise, guests, and cleaning.

Embrace their differences their traditions are cool! Find common ground over shared interests, but also respect everyone's need for privacy.

This open communication will turn your random dorm mates into friendly roommates!
(edited 1 year ago)
Original post by Nicoleon
I am a freshman who has just moved into the dormitory and is living with roommates. I have found that there are some differences and friction between me and my roommates, such as different living habits, schedules, etc. Because my roommates come from different countries or regions, their living habits, cultural backgrounds, etc., are different. These differences in lifestyle habits, schedules, etc., may lead to some disagreements and friction. I want to know how to handle these relationships to ensure a pleasant living environment with my roommates.
I hope to receive everyone's advice, or to share their anecdotes about dealing with such situations.
Thank you!!!

Hey there,

It's completely normal to experience some friction when living with roommates, especially when you all come from different backgrounds. Open communication is key. Try having an honest conversation about your concerns. Discuss your different habits and try to find a compromise that works for everyone. Remember, it's important to be respectful and patient with each other's differences. It's also a great opportunity to learn about different cultures.

Good luck!
Ilya :smile:

Reply 4

Thank you all very much for your suggestions. I need to communicate more with my roommates and participate more in activities with my classmates to increase mutual understanding.

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