1.  If you have a chance, get to know your roommate a little bit before school starts. Talk about what each of you should bring (in terms of bigger electronics, like a tv). Ask if they have any special requests or needs that you can help with.
  2. Be careful what you tell your roommate the first time you meet them. Get to know them before revealing private details, you never know how your relationship will end up after the first week or so.
  3. Create separate spaces in the room. Try to keep spaces equal, but don’t isolate yourself to just one small area.
  4. Talk about cleaning issues before they actually become issues. Who will clean what, and when?
  5. Talk about visitors. When is it appropriate to have boys/girls over? When should they leave?
  6. Talk about party times and study times – when can the room be loud, and when do you need quiet?
  7. Try to strike up a conversation every once in a while – you never know what might come out of it.