Key rule: Treat your roommate the way you would like to be treated.
1. Be clear about your expectations
Sometimes, it is easier for you to explain how you would like to work things out, rather than expect the other person to automatically understand how you choose to function. If you like keeping things clean and tidy, try suggesting a cleaning schedule. Maybe your roommate wakes you up early unintentionally while they are getting ready for class. Let them know about any little quirks, so that they are aware of it. Also try to be as open and understanding to any expectations that they may have. This way you won’t want to bite the other one’s head off.
2. Respect your roommate’s privacy & space.
Since you will be sharing a small space, chances are you might bump into your roommate’s things. Try to keep a comfortable distance between the both of you, so that you can respect each other’s space and privacy. Don’t try snooping around. You wouldn’t want someone looking into your things either, would you?
If you need to borrow or use something (even something small as a plate or pen), just make sure your roommate does not mind before doing so.
3. Address any concerns/problems (even if they are little).
Now, I’m not suggesting that you sit there and start going on about all the annoying things your roommate does. Instead, it may be better to kindly address and discuss any problems at the start so that your roomate is more aware and can understand better. Maybe the dishes in the sink keep piling up and you’re the one always washing them. Coming up with solutions on how to fix certain problems should help things run smoothly. This will prevent something small turning into something big. Instead of bottling any feelings inside, and then exploding your emotions all over the place, try to express yourself.
4. Be kind and mindful.
Don’t think your roommate and you click enough to become best friends for life? Be kind to one another regardless. Medical school can be stressful sometimes (or most of the time). The last thing you want before an exam is to get on each other’s nerves.
If your roommate has an important test the next day, try to be a little more considerate of your surroundings so that you do not disturb them (e.g., talking loudly on the phone, turning too many lights on if they are trying to sleep, etc.)
Do not bring guests or study groups into the room without asking if it is okay with your roommate. Since you are sharing the place, it is only fair to make sure both of you are comfortable. You may love to study in a group or with friends, however your roommate might like to study with minimal noise. The dormitories have study rooms available for individuals or groups. The library is less than a 4 minute walk from the dormitories and has options for both small and large study groups. Hopefully they appreciate enough and do the same for you.
5. Diversity and culture.
Many of the students come from different religious and cultural backgrounds. Try to be as open and accepting as you can.
