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Regarding a roomate, what would be the proper etiquette on who should bring what?

Rooming with another person is a big change, so I was curious on how to best assign duties. #dorms #college #college-advice #Roommates #Housing #On-campus

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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Cole,

Tips for Harmonious Living with a Roommate: What to Bring and Share

Living with a roommate can be a rewarding experience if you establish clear communication and set expectations from the start. Here are some actionable tips on how to decide who should bring what when sharing a living space:

1. Open Dialogue: Initiate a candid conversation with your roommate about what each of you already owns and is willing to share. Discuss any additional items needed for the shared space.

2. Common Items: Items like cleaning supplies, kitchen tools, and furniture for common areas are usually shared. It's recommended that both roommates equally contribute to acquiring these.

3. Individual Belongings: Personal items such as bedding, toiletries, and decor should be each roommate's responsibility. Respecting each other's personal space and belongings is crucial for a positive living atmosphere.

4. Dividing Expenses: If there are items to be bought for the shared space, think about dividing the costs equally or finding a fair arrangement that suits both of you.

5. Setting Rules: Establish clear rules at the outset to avoid future misunderstandings or conflicts. Discuss matters like cleaning schedules, quiet times, guest policies, and any other potential issues.

By adhering to these tips and keeping communication lines open, you can create a respectful and cooperative living space where everyone feels comfortable and appreciated.

Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:

The Spruce
Apartment Therapy
USA Today

The Spruce: A reliable source for home improvement and interior design tips, The Spruce offers advice on setting up shared living spaces and understanding roommate etiquette.

Apartment Therapy: A leading home decor and lifestyle website, Apartment Therapy provides practical tips on creating harmonious living spaces, often featuring articles on roommate etiquette.

USA Today: A respected news outlet, USA Today covers a wide variety of topics, including college life and housing advice, offering insights on managing roommate relationships and setting boundaries in shared living spaces.

Stay Blessed!
James Constantine Frangos.
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Richard’s Answer

First figure out what each of you already own. Then make a wish list of what you want. Figure out how much you are willing to spend. Decide what things you can't live without. Then split the list while trying to keep the total spent even.
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Divyaa’s Answer

I think you should both figure out what you both need and see who has what items. And if either of you does not have an item you need, figure out which person can get it and split the cost for the item.
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Sheila’s Answer

Hi Cole:

Going to college for the first time and living with a total stranger can be a frightening experience but it doesn't have to be. Once you and your roommates are settled in your room take an inventory of the items you need versus the items you already have. Sit down together and make a list of what you need, who's purchasing what, and determine how much money you want to spend so you share equal costs. I like the idea of the shared spreadsheet by Jeremy on who brings what by each person to make things go smoothly and more efficient. Best of luck to you!

~ Sheila
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Jeremy’s Answer

Hey Cole !
Living your first year in the dorms can be a scary experience at first especially if you are dorming with someone you have never met before. However if executed correctly it can be a very enjoyable experience for everyone. I believe your first step is to reach out to your dormmate whether it be through email, text, or social media. Once everyone has reached out I think the best form of communication is through text or facebook messenger. If you have never met your dormmates before a good idea would be to hop in a facetime or zoom call and have a little rundown on yourself and how you expect the dorm life to be like. During this meeting or later everyone can decide on who should bring what. To make things extra efficient someone can make a shared spreadsheet with items that will be needed for the dorm and items that will be brought with each person. This allows everyone to see items they should and should not bring.
Once everyone is moved in together, collectively y'all can see what extra things need to bought and if you forgot anything. To ensure the best living experience your dorm mates should have an in person meeting to set rules and boundaries. Without any rules it will most likely be chaotic and everyone will start to hate each other. The rules don't have to be strict or anything but your roommates should know where everyone stands.
I hope this helped and good luck !
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