When trying to choose a freshman roommate, picking someone you already know might seem like a natural choice. After all, you’re already familiar with each other’s personalities, habits, and quirks. However, while this might offer comfort and convenience, it can also bring challenges that could affect your living situation. Let’s check out the pros and cons of rooming with someone you already know.
Pros
1. Built-in Friend:
One of the biggest advantages of rooming with a pre-college friend is the bond you already have. You have a built-in buddy to meet new people with, you share memories together, and you’re comfortable with each other. This can lead to a more harmonious living environment.
2. Stronger Communication:
Because you know each other well, communicating about boundaries, needs, and preferences can be easier. Whether it’s about sharing chores or dealing with noise levels, you’re more likely to have open, honest conversations, which can prevent potential issues down the line.
3. Shared Interests:
Rooming with a friend means you already have things in common, whether it’s a shared love for romcoms, late night ice cream runs, or eclectic room decor. This makes it easier to plan activities together or enjoy downtime in each other’s company without feeling forced.
4. Emotional Support:
Living with someone who’s already a close friend can provide emotional support during tough times. The first semester of college can be tough! If you get homesick or have an exam that didn’t go as you’d hoped, having someone who knows you deeply can make a huge difference. You’re more likely to lean on each other for advice and feel more comfortable opening up about the struggles you’re facing.
Cons
1. Blurred Boundaries:
While it’s great to room with a friend, the line between “friend” and “roommate” can become blurred. This can lead to conflicts over things like shared space, cleanliness, or guest visits. When you room with a new person, you’re more likely to set those boundaries early and build a strong foundation as roommates first before you become close friends.
2. Lack of Personal Space:
When you’re friends with someone, it can be easy to take each other for granted, especially when it comes to personal space. You might find yourself constantly in each other’s way, whether it’s with sharing the already small dorm space or just general quiet time. When you’re living with someone you don’t know, you tend to give each other more personal time because you value that as well.
3. Friendship Stress:
Living together can change the dynamic of your friendship. Even small habits or quirks that didn’t bother you before could suddenly become irritating when you have to see them every day. In extreme cases, this can strain or even end friendships if conflicts aren’t addressed properly.
4. Less Room for Growth:
When you room with a friend, it can be tempting to stick to your comfort zone. You might not challenge each other to meet new people or try new things. Living with someone outside your friend group could encourage you to step out of your comfort zone and broaden your social circle, something that can be harder to do with a close friend already by your side.
Final Thoughts
Rooming with someone you know can offer a lot of comfort and convenience, but it comes with its share of challenges. Weighing the pros and cons carefully can help you make the best decision for your living situation. If you’re able to communicate openly and maintain healthy boundaries, living with a friend can be a rewarding experience. However, if you value personal space and prefer to keep your friendship separate from your living arrangements, it might be worth considering other options. Living with a friend can make you feel more comfortable in an uncomfortable place, while living with someone new may broaden your horizons and push you towards growth.