Living with a roommate can be rewarding and challenging all at the same time. For some expert tips on keeping the harmony, we polled current UGA students. Here are their top suggestions to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable living experience. 

TOP TIP # 1: Communicate with your roommate! 

TOP TIP #2: Clean up after yourself and take the trash out! 

What room/roommate rules would you suggest? 

• To have a fun college experience without drama and negativity 

• No fish, too smelly  

• We have a whiteboard that shows our class schedules  

• Text each other when people are coming over  

• If someone is sleeping, be quiet no matter the time of day  

• Set boundaries early. Make sure everyone understands all the rules. Assign chores (trust me) 

• Phone calls are taken outside the room unless you ask the other person, or they’re gone  

• If you make a mess, clean it up. Throw trash away 

• Be respectful of what time you go to bed 

How do you handle cleaning?  

• If your roommate is messy, don’t be afraid to call them out privately 

• I do the bathroom; they do the kitchen 

• We decided who would do each chore (cleaning, taking out trash, etc.) 

• We keep our areas clean, and I deep clean on weekends because I like things to be clean 

• They clean and I take out the trash 

• If my roommate and I both have a dirty cup, I’ll clean both, they do the same for me 

• We take turns vacuuming and buying basic supplies 

• We alternate taking the trash and recycling out 

What’s your best advice for new roommates?  

• Go to events together. Don’t let your relationship become silent 

• It’s better to room with acquaintances instead of your best friend 

• Communication is HUGE!!! Holding back can cause grudges, have the hard convo 

• Don’t expect to become best friends. Let that be a bonus if everything goes well 

• Just be kind, understanding and respectful. It will make life 10X easier 

• If things aren’t working out after some effort, talk to your RA 

• Know each other’s schedule, so you know when you can have alone time in the room 

• Be aware that you are living in a SHARED space 

• Keep your mess clean and do something nice to help the other person sometimes 

• Respect one another and be kind 

With a few adjustments from living at home, you too will be ready for a great roommate experience. Here’s to a fantastic and drama-free year ahead! Go Dawgs!