Coffee Cup Quiche

| Summer Bradley / The Alestle

How to get Along and sHare a space – even during a pAndemic

NICOLE BOYD

copy editor

Moving out of your parents’ house and living on your own terms is an exciting part of the college experience for many. This new experience can present new challenges, however, especially for those who have never lived with a roommate before. We at The Alestle are here to provide you with some tips to make the adjustment process easier, even during a pandemic.

Ask to borrow things

Even if you’re 99 percent sure your roommate would be fine with you borrowing something, ask them. Asking shows respect for their personal belongings and their feelings. The two of you might decide that some things can be borrowed anytime, other things should be asked for, and others are completely off-limits. Whatever you decide, it’s important to respect those boundaries in order to build a good relation

ship.

Talk about COVID-19

Maybe your roommate would like to hang out with lots of different people, while you feel safer following social distancing guidelines. If so, you need to speak up and let them know which activities make you uncomfortable. If the reverse is true, listen to your roommate’s concerns and do what you can to ensure they feel healthy and safe.

One of you may have more exposure outside the apartment due to work or classes. If that is the case, talk about safety precautions you both can take to minimize your risk of contracting COVID-19. You may decide to keep your distance as much as possible, avoid sharing your belongings and wipe frequently touched surfaces. touchy subject, whether you’re in a pandemic or not. Some people like having friends or their partner over, while others may feel as if guests are disruptive to their living situation. You and your roommate need to have a conversation about which guests, if any, will be allowed.

University Housing currently prohibits guests from anywhere outside of your residence hall. Even under that guideline, the two of you may decide to limit who is allowed into your living space, whether that’s only your significant others, a select number of friends or none at all until it’s safer. If guests are in your space, be sure to address any concerns with your roommate immediately.

Practice good hygiene

pecially important to shower, use deodorant and wash your hair. Avoid things like keeping old or smelly food in the fridge, letting dirty dishes pile up and having old laundry thrown around your side of the room. Cleanliness is even more important during a pandemic. Remember to wash your hands often, clean your room and bathroom and disinfect surfaces regularly.

Be respectful of schedules

Talk with your roommate and apartment mates about how early their classes start. If someone has an early class, don’t have people over late or talk loudly on the phone late at night. Be mindful of how your actions affect those living with you.

In addition to class schedules, pay attention to your roommate’s or apartment mates’ routines. If everybody showers at night, try not to hog the shower while others are waiting on you. If people like to shower in the morning, let those with the earlier classes shower first so they aren’t late.

Keep the lines of communication open

You may find that what you initially agreed to isn’t working. Talk to your roommate politely about what you would like to change. It might be a bit awkward at first, but use “I feel” statements and try not to raise your voice.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, communication is more important than ever. You and your roommate may not see eyeto-eye on every precaution, but by communicating, you can find what works best for both of you. If you have an issue, speak up before it becomes a bigger problem. If your roommate raises a concern, listen before getting defensive. Living with a roommate can pose some new challenges, but it can also be an exciting part of the college experience.