The Plainsman Press - South Plains College

Rebecca Smith, staff writer

Roommates. They are an uncertainty that every college student faces.

Males and females alike stand looking at this subject with disappointing stares, wishing they were still living with mommy and daddy.

It’s true that many people begin college living with someone who they’ve known for quite a long time. However, being an observer, I have noticed several relationships crumple within only a few months. It is sad knowing that even a best friend can cross the boundaries that keep us all sane.

It’s an amazing situation to observe when two people become roommates.

I have found that it only takes about a day and half to figure out who will attack your nerves at their core. This should really be taken as a warning for anyone when considering picking a roommate.

Certain people who may have habits that can cause the gritting of the teeth should be crossed off the list. Those habits can mount into a bevee of skin-crawling pet peeves that aren’t healthy for even a semester. Take, for instance, that horrible, disgusting habit of “smacking” food. You may think that a simple incident could be slightly overlooked. Yet, how many meals are in a given semester?

Another, very important thing to note is what the moral motives are behind this person’s lifestyle. If a person does not stand for the same ethical principles that you do, it may not be wise to consider this person a logical roommate. Throughout history, people who stood for separate values rarely remained friends. Different stances on political, religious, and moral issues can play a strong note in the downfall of a friendship.

Also, consideration of trust is very important. This person will now hold the key to your home. Your every possession is at their grasp. Even if you do trust this person, you must be sure to trust their friends. “Mi casa es su casa,” remember? That means that every friend or your roommate will be able to not only eat your food, but easily take your possessions.

There may also be certain “get-togethers” that should be considered. When you come home from work one day and find your house strewn with items, your mind may roll back to your roommate mentioning having a “few” friends over for a bar-b-que. However, this was not an ordinary bar-b-que with potato salad and cole slaw. Perhaps, your roommate has a logical explanation for what has obviously occurred.

All things considered, it is safe to say that you have probably picked a superb roommate, who not only will be a friend of yours even after you move out, but will also bring respect into your home. Healthy relationships can bloom into a much better atmosphere for you and your roommate. Maybe now “roommate” is not such a scary word after all.