The college dorm experience is an exciting one. Finally, you have some newfound independence and a number of like-minded peers living close to you. Of course, no one will be living closer to you in distance than your roommate. We’ve put together some simple, but very important strategies to help you with the transition of having a roommate.

Be Transparent with Your Roommate—Starting from Day One

Set some expectations or a few key rules that you and your roommate both follow. Like to keep your room clean? Maybe the two of you can agree that Wednesdays and Sundays are your cleaning days. Assign roles so that you’re both contributing. Is Friday your night in and Saturday your night out? Then designate Saturday nights for when you two can have guests over. These are important conversations to have from the very beginning. As new situations arise, continue to be transparent so issues don’t bubble up. This is a skill you’ll need not only for dorm living, but for life. You’ll never know unless you ask, and your roommate will never know unless you speak up. If you need an outside opinion, contact your RA for guidance.

Be Considerate of Each Other’s Circumstances

Whether you and your roommate are best friends or not, it would be nice to regularly ask them about their day and how they’re doing. This could help build a stronger connection and make you both more empathetic in your room. For example, if your roommate’s responsibility on Sunday is to vacuum and you know he has two big tests that Monday, you could step up and take on vacuuming duties that day. If he’s been frustrated at how difficult it’s been to make friends, ask him to come to the dining hall with you and your friends. Having some basic understanding of each other’s lives can lead to small and meaningful actions.

Roommates Versus Best Friends

In an ideal world, you have a great roommate who is also your best friend. However, this isn’t always the case. Understand that you can have a great roommate who isn’t your best friend or a best friend who isn’t a great roommate. There will be plenty of chances to live with other people in the future if this isn’t the perfect living match. No matter what, be respectful and responsible during the year you’re living together. It will be nice for each of you to have a friendly face around campus when you inevitably see each other again.