How to Be the Best Roommate in Your Student Residence

Hey, CJ fam! Welcome to your new chapter—aka the adventure of student life! Whether bunking with your bestie or meeting your new squad for the first time, living in a student residence is where the magic happens. But spoiler alert: it’s not just about late-night snack runs and vibey study sessions.

Here’s the tea: being a stellar roommate isn’t just about “existing peacefully”—it’s about showing some love for your shared space and staying out of trouble. Trust me, you don’t want to be someone who accidentally makes everyone’s life harder. Let me spill the hacks that’ll have your new housemates calling you the G.O.A.T.

 

1. Keep Your Space Fresh

Nobody wants to walk into the kitchen and find a week-old science experiment brewing in the sink. Pls, do better.

• Rule #1: Clean up your dishes right after you use them. (Yes, even the ones from that 2 a.m. noodles session.)
• Rule #2: Keep your common spaces clean—it’s a communal vibe, not a dumping zone.

Pro Tip: Slap an air freshener in your room to avoid any “mystery smells” (and awkward convos later).

 

2. Know Your Lease, Know Your Power

Leases are like the Wi-Fi terms and conditions—you skim them, but they’re important.

• Don’t skip this step: Sit down and read your lease before you break it by mistake.
• From quiet hours to no-pet policies (RIP, dream of sneaking in a goldfish), the rules are there to keep everyone sane.
• Oh, and BTW: damages = YOUR wallet. So if you punch a hole in the wall during “party mode,” get ready to pay up.

 

3. Respect the House Rules

Look, we all love a good turn-up, but don’t let it cost you your deposit (or a noise complaint from the neighbours).

• Keep the vibe balanced: Study, chill, repeat.
• If you’ve got mates over, make sure they know not to trash the place. (You’ll thank me later!)

 

4.  Share the Love, Not the Drama

University campuses can be huge and overwhelming. Spend some time exploring:

• Locate Important Offices: Know where the library, student centre, NSFAS office, and computer labs are.
• Attend Orientation: It’s the best way to meet people, learn about campus resources, and get tips from senior students.

Pro Tip: Save campus maps on your phone or download your university’s app if available.

 

5. Take Care of Yourself

Balancing academics, social life, and personal well-being is crucial.

• Stay Healthy: Eat balanced meals and get enough sleep.
• Ask for Help: Many universities offer free counselling and health services.
• Stay Active: Join a sports team or gym to keep your body and mind fit.

Pro Tip: Use your downtime wisely. Relax, recharge, and don’t feel guilty about taking a break.

 

Final Words: Live Like a Boss!

This is YOUR home away from home, so treat it with the love it deserves. Set the tone, show respect, and keep the vibes immaculate. The choices you make now can save you drama—and money—down the line.

Oh, and if you’re ever in doubt, just remember: clean it, fix it, respect it, or face it.