Do I Want Roommates?

Roommates offer companionship and financial support you would otherwise lack flying solo. However, there is a lot to consider before inviting someone to share in your personal space. Here are just a few:

Pros:

• Splitting the costs – Rent and utilities add up quickly. From a practical point of view, it may seem like rooming with someone to ease expense is a no-brainer. Perhaps you feel comfortable splitting groceries as well, which are less costly when purchased wholesale. Just err on the side of caution and be prepared in case you have to foot a missed payment.

• Two’s company – Some say your roommate is the first friend you make in college, and this is true for many. It’s nice to have someone to explore the city with, especially if you’re both new to the area and/or living far from family. This person can help you overcome fears, become more sociable, and learn about yourself. The value of not feeling alone can’t be overstated.

• The help – Keeping a place tidy in between school, extracurriculars, work, assignments and whatever else, can be quite the task. What time you do have off on the weekend is precious, so it’s nice to have someone around to help out. Providing your roommate has the same motivation to keep the shared space presentable, you can create a chores list. This way, everything is accounted for and contributions are evenly distributed.

Cons:

• AWOL – There are risks with any financial relationship. Maybe you’re not familiar with your roommate and his spending habits. Perhaps your roommate doesn’t have the best credit. Then again, perhaps he has the best intentions to make payments on time, but has recently lost his job. In either case, if you share a lease, you’re both in trouble. College is stressful enough without the threat of eviction and economic strain. If you know you’re roommate is irresponsible with money beforehand, you may want to reconsider rooming with him. Regardless, it is still always best to find an apartment that allows you to lease individually. This peace of mind will lessen the pressure and help your relationship by reducing potential conflict.

• Mutually exclusive – Perhaps the most obvious downside to having someone is your personal space is just that. Sometimes it’s hard NOT to be intrusive when live with someone. Sit down with your roommate at the very beginning and discuss your social expectations. What time does the apartment need to be quiet at night? Does it? Who can come over and how frequently? How often do you need to study? Do you require a perfectly clean apartment or are you both comfortable with a mess? If you do split the grocery bill, try to keep the consumption 50/50. If you don’t, make sure your roomie knows the refrigerator isn’t a free-for-all. Respect goes a long way, and conflict in close quarters can get awkward.