Don't Be an Asshole: Living On-Campus
- Christine
- Aug 17, 2015
- 3 min read
When it comes to dorming, I’ve run the gauntlet. From ridiculous roommates, to raving neighbors, from late-night skateboarders, to friends turned frienemies, I’ve been through it all. And I just have one simple piece of advice for anyone who will be living in a dorm room for the next nine months, and that is, don’t be an asshole.
There are a few things that will automatically make you the building’s asshole. And let’s face it, is that really what you want? I don’t think so. So in spirit of my back-to-college series, I’m going to offer a few simple tips and tricks to not be that guy. Follow them if you choose.
In your room:
Don’t eat your roommate’s food without asking. Sometimes they will tell you as soon as they bring it home from the grocery store that it’s for the two of you to share. If this does happen, don’t assume that everything they bring back is to share. Ask first. And if the answer is no, don’t eat it when they leave the room.
If your room is divided into sides, keep your stuff on your side. It’s that simple.
When you’re going out to the store, ask your roommate if they would like to come or if they need anything. A little courtesy goes a long way.
If you two are on complete opposite sides of the spectrum, try to keep open communication and compromise. These are two of the hardest things to do, and not doing them leads to a lot of tension within a room. I’m still trying to master this one.
Issues to compromise on: Room temperature, Wake-up and lights out time, TV Time, when and how late to have friends over.
Be respectful of each other’s property and preferences. This tip should be a no brainer. Also try to be tidy. I know that things get crazy, but if you’re going to make a mess, at least make the mess on your side. Don't have your significant other over every day. DO NOT TRY TO ENGAGE IN INTERCOURSE WITH YOUR SIGNIFICANT OTHER IF YOUR ROOMMATE IS IN THE ROOM, EVEN IF THEY ARE SLEEPING.
In your building:
Respect quiet hours, especially during the week. I don’t care if it’s Thirsty Thursday, some people have 8 a.m. classes are they are, in fact trying to sleep at midnight because they actually go to class. During the day, be courteous of those around you. Don’t play your music excessively loud if your door is propped open and don’t run down the hall screaming, even if you are excited about something.
Pro-tip: Don’t scream outside people’s windows either. You may be outside, but the people inside can still hear you.
Don’t out your laundry in the washing machine if you are leaving the building/campus. It really depends where you are going, how long you will be gone, and what you plan to do. Don’t put in laundry then go grocery shopping. In most cases, dorms have two washing machines and two dryers per floor. That’s not a lot when you count how many people you have to share with, and when you leave it there for hours, you’re inconveniencing a lot of people. Try not to leave.
Pro-tip: If you’re going to move someone’s laundry, don’t throw it on the floor.
Pro-tip: Clean out the lint catcher when you are done. No one else wants to touch your lint. Lint traps all kinds of things, like hair. Please clean up after yourself so someone else doesn’t have to.
If someone is right behind you, hold the door for them. Even if they are a few feet away. I promise you, holding the door won’t ruin your day or make you late.
Pro-tip: Also offer a friendly hello and a smile. It might make their day just a little brighter
Respect other people’s property. I say this again because it is so important. Don’t write that someone is a slut on his or her whiteboard. Especially if you don’t know the person (but primarily not at all). That’s not only disrespectful, but you also have no idea what that person could be dealing with. Also not a great way to make friends. Just saying.
I know a lot of these tips seem like no-brainers, but you will be amazed at how few people actually follow them. Different campuses will offer different challenges, based on the atmosphere and student body. The best way to go about it is to be mindful of yourself and others, and don’t do something you wouldn’t want someone else to do to you. Sounds a bit like the Golden Rule you learned back in Kindergarten, doesn’t it?
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