That first day of college can be terrifying. You don't know anyone, you don’t know your way around, and you have never even met the person who you are supposed to be living with. 

All summer you’ve been wondering what they’ll be like. What music do they listen to? What do they like doing? What will they be studying? Will you have anything in common?

Most colleges send out extensive roommate matching forms these days and do their best to put people together that seem to be compatible and the systems often work. But let’s be honest, there’s no way that your true personality comes out through a series of multiple choice questions about music and staying up late. Roommate matching is a gamble which can really pay off or really go wrong.  

The most important step to take is to walk into that room on your first day with a completely open mind. Don’t walk into the room and instantly form your opinion- looks can be very deceiving. You’ve been put together for a reason; try to find the common ground. Don’t expect to be instant buddies, it make take a few weeks or even months as the two of you adjust not only to each other but to the whole college experience.  

Of course there will be times when you just can’t stand your roommate and you’re pretty sure the feeling is mutual. It happens. Don’t let roommate problems ruin your year. Make compromises, deal with problems, or- if you really just can’t live together any longer- make arrangements to move out and try again with a new roommate. Never suffer alone in silence, talk to others and find out what your options are. There’s always a solution to be found.