Part of the university experience is meeting people from different backgrounds, interests and cultures. Be flexible and be prepared to compromise – that way you are more likely to have a harmonious experience while you are sharing.
Be open minded
It can be easy to form opinions based on first impressions. But remember that moving to university can be a stressful time for some people and they may feel overwhelmed, nervous or shy. So, spend some time getting to know your flatmates. Make one another feel welcome and comfortable before making any judgement. Remember, you’re all in the same boat.
You might have different interests and different personalities, but this should not be a cause for stress. Not all flatmates will become your best mates, but you can still get along and have a civilised relationship.
Sharing Space
You should consider and discuss with your flatmates any details that are important to you such as noise, cleanliness, guests, sharing of items and anything else you feel relevant.
Remember living with others works both ways and you should also listen to the things that are important to your flatmates and be considerate of these whilst living together.
Make a rota for kitchen chores. Once you have agreed on your house’s definition of clean you will need to plan who is doing what and when and work towards one of those ‘clean’ houses.
Communication
Don't leave passive-aggressive notes around the flat. Talking to one another, good communication and a willingness to co-operate will help to build and maintain a good relationship with your flatmates. Its important to remember that moving to university is a stressful time and initial teething problems are usually resolved within the first few weeks.
Respect
Respect the belongings of others, ‘borrowing’ your housemate’s stuff without permission never goes down well, and is probably the thing that causes most friction in house shares.
Private space
If the door to their bedroom is closed make sure you knock before you go in. You are not at home with Mum and Dad anymore, so respect each other’s privacy.
Guests
Ask before inviting guests over. After all no one likes the communal space being taken over, and be sure they don’t overstay their welcome.
Security
Look after security. It’s not funny if you leave the door open and your housemate gets the laptop stolen – look out for each other’s stuff and take good care of the place you are living in.
Organise activities together
This could be watching a film together, going into town and going to events, or even just arranging to eat dinner at the same time.