The Roommate Experience

Going to college is full of new experiences, real-world problems, and roommates. For freshmen being paired with complete strangers is both an exciting new chapter and a constant worry on whether or not you will get along. Whether the roommate is chosen or completely random, relationships can be strained. Freshman Kyle Hayes, 18, has two random roommates in Wilson. Hayes says while “it is sometimes difficult to live with two other guys in a small space, [they] all get along and make the best of the situation.”

Hayes and his roommates have a seemly strong relationship. They attend football games together and even occasionally have roommate dinners at the union. However, when a situation does arise they all agree to “not be afraid to speak their minds or the issue.” Hayes is a firm believer in voicing his issues by saying, “in a bad situation the worst thing to do is to keep it inside to fester.” This theory could be proven when looking into the roommate relationship of Codi Bott, 18.

Bott is living with on of her friends from back home and already she “is feeling the tension.” Ever since her friend went through sorority recruitment she feels as if she is somehow changing. “She has become so rude towards me, and is constantly saying inconsiderate [things] about how being in Greek life makes her better than me.” While Bott hasn’t gotten to the point of confrontation, her roommate, Mary Thomas says, “[she] is close to snapping and wants Codi to just leaver her be.”

The two girls went to high school together and believed their friendship would stand up to any sort of issues thrown their way. However, living with someone is a whole new experience from being just friends. To live with another person means be courteous to their habits and lifestyles. It can hit rough patches but it really depends on the people living together to work it out.