Pros and cons
There are lots of benefits to living with a roommate, but it's not right for everyone. Consider what you need from your living environment before you make your decision. This list of pros and cons may help you identify the best choice for you.
Pros of roommates
Friendship
Living with a roommate is an opportunity to gain a friend.
Personal growth
Learning how to live with a roommate will help you grow as a person. You can gain new communication and collaboration skills. With a roommate you can practice setting boundaries and compromising in ways that benefit both parties
Support network
A support system can help you succeed in university. Roommates can provide motional support. They can become someone you can rely on in times of need.
Shared responsibility
Taking care of your home is a lot of work. Roommates shared responsibly for maintaining common spaces.
Cons of roommates
Disagreements
There is a risk that you and your roommate will have disagreements. You may get help from a community leader, but it will be your responsibility to work through disagreements.
Sharing
Sharing your living space and personal space can be difficult.
Schedules
You might have different sleep or school schedules to work around.
Standards
You and your roommate may have different social needs or standards in hygiene and cleanliness.
Tips to live well with a roommate
Live by the golden rule
The golden rule is to treat those like you want to be treated. When you treat other people with respect, they are more likely to respect you.
Learn to communicate
If someone's actions are bothering you, don't keep silent and bottle up your feelings. It benefits you and your roommate(s) to share how a behaviour is bothering you. Communicating is the key to resolving any issue. Be open to compromise and conversation.