Having a roommate for the first time can stir up a lot of emotions. Here are tips on what can be done before you arrive to residence to make the experience a positive one:

1) Get excited!!: Sharing your first year experience with your roommate can create a wonderful friendship and memories that will last a lifetime!

2) Prepare to Share: By no means does everything you bring with you to residence need to be shared, but some things work best as communal items. (A good example of a communal item is a mini fridge, toothbrushes however don’t make the cut!)

3) Communicate: Try finding your roomie on Facebook. Introduce yourself, discuss likes and dislikes and mention the communal items you are bringing with you to residence to avoid doubles.

4) Pack lightly: This may be the first time you are living in high density quarters. Just keep in mind you are sharing the residence space with other people.

5) Brainstorm: Before moving to Guelph in September, take the time to think about what is important to you. Knowing this and being able to share this with your roommate on the first day will begin to lay the foundation for a positive relationship. In September you are two strangers who share a room. What you are in April is up to you!