Here are some great places to start when looking for future roommates:

• Friend Groups: Living with friends is always a great option especially your first year living off campus. You can also reach out to classmates, friends, or acquaintances within your college community. Online Platforms: Explore roommate matching websites and apps such as Ralphieslist, facebook groups, Roommates.com, or Craigslist. These platforms allow you to create a profile and search for potential roommates based on shared interests, habits, and preferences.

• Social Media: Post about your search for roommates on your social media accounts, especially if you have friends or followers attending the same college or looking for housing in the same area.

• Campus Events: Attend housing fairs, campus events, or housing information sessions organized by your college. These events often provide opportunities to meet potential roommates in person and discuss housing options.

Deciding between rooming with friends or people who are less familiar to you? 

Here’s some pros and cons of both options to help you decide (but remember that all friendships and people are different, this is just a list to help you brainstorm what will be best for you!):

In summary, whether you choose to live with friends or with people you might not know as well, it's essential to prioritize open communication, establish clear boundaries, and be willing to compromise and adapt to ensure a harmonious living environment. Additionally, conducting thorough interviews, and discussing expectations beforehand can help mitigate potential challenges and ensure a positive roommate experience.

Topics to Discuss before moving in/deciding to be roommates:

• Housing Preferences: Determine the type of housing desired and neighborhood preferences. It's crucial to talk about what kind of place you want to live in and where. Maybe you prefer a quiet neighborhood, or maybe you want to be closer to campus. Also discuss what your budget is. Be open and honest about this because not everyone has the same budget or preferences!

• Lease Type (individual or joint): Decide if you want to sign the lease together or separately. If you sign it together, you're both responsible for the rent. If it's separate, each person is responsible for their part. This is important to know so everyone understands their responsibilities. By discussing this beforehand, roommates can understand each other's preferences and make an informed decision that aligns with their individual needs and circumstances. This helps prevent disputes regarding lease agreements and ensures clarity regarding each person's rights and responsibilities.

• Living Arrangements: Allocate living spaces within the apartment. If there is a room that is bigger/smaller than the other room(s), will the rent be allocated differently per room? Figure out who gets which room and if the rent will be different depending on room size. This way, everyone feels like they're getting a fair deal.

• Subletting Plans: Talk about if and when you or your roommate(s) might want to sublet their room. This matters because it could mean living with someone you don't know well. Being upfront about this helps everyone feel comfortable and safe.

• Leisure Activities: Discuss what activities you all enjoy doing together at home. Whether it's watching movies, playing games, or cooking together, it's good to know what everyone likes especially if it’s something you might not like.

• Substance Use: Be honest about your habits and views with tobacco, alcohol, and drug use. Some people might not be comfortable living with someone who uses these substances, so it's important to talk about it.

• Guest Guidelines: Decide on rules for having guests over and if it's okay for significant others to stay for extended periods. This helps set boundaries and ensures everyone feels respected.

• Shared Items: Decide which items you're okay with sharing, like appliances or groceries. This avoids any conflicts over who gets to use what.

• Daily Schedules: Understand each other's daily routines so you can be respectful of each other's time and space.

• Entertainment Preferences: Talk about what kind of music and TV shows everyone likes. This way, you can find common interests and enjoy leisure time together.

• Furniture Inventory: Make a list of the furniture items you and they already have. This helps avoid buying duplicates and ensures everyone has what they need.

• Internet Usage: Discuss who will be responsible in setting up/paying for the wifi or if this will a joint effort. Also discuss how you'll use the internet and if there are any restrictions or limits. This prevents any arguments over bandwidth or streaming habits. 

• Pets: Discuss potential pets or views on pets coming into the picture while you are leaving together.

• Exam Periods: Address any special rules or accommodations needed during exam times. This ensures everyone has a conducive environment for studying.

Living with roommates can be an enriching experience, but it's not without its challenges. Sometimes, despite best intentions, situations may arise where you realize that the person you initially considered as a roommate might not be the best fit for your living situation. Having an open and honest conversation about this delicate matter is crucial for maintaining harmony and finding the best solution for everyone involved. And remember, the sooner the better so everyone has enough time to find alternative solutions.

How to Have a Conversation with a Potential Roommate You No Longer Wish to Live With:

• Prepare Yourself Mentally: Before initiating the conversation, take some time to reflect on your reasons for reconsidering your living arrangement. It's essential to be clear about your feelings and intentions before discussing them with your roommate.

• Choose the Right Time and Place: Find a time when both of you are relaxed and not preoccupied with other commitments. Select a private setting where you can have an uninterrupted conversation.

• Be Direct but Tactful: Start the conversation by expressing gratitude for the initial offer to be roommates. Then, gently transition into explaining your change of heart. Use "I" statements to express your feelings without placing blame. For example, "I've been doing some thinking, and I realize that our living styles might not align as well as I initially thought."

• Provide Specific Reasons: Be honest about why you feel the need to reconsider the living arrangement. Whether it's differences in cleanliness habits, lifestyles, or personal boundaries, provide specific examples to clarify your concerns. However, avoid criticizing or attacking the other person.

• Listen Actively: After expressing your thoughts, allow your roommate the opportunity to respond. Listen attentively to their perspective and concerns without interrupting. Understanding their viewpoint is crucial for finding a mutually beneficial solution.

• Explore Alternatives: Once both perspectives are clear, brainstorm potential solutions together. Whether it's finding a compromise, seeking mediation, or exploring alternative living arrangements, focus on finding a resolution that respects both parties' needs and preferences.

• Set Boundaries Moving Forward: Regardless of the outcome, establish clear boundaries for your future interactions. This might include agreeing to remain respectful and cordial, even if you decide not to live together.

• Follow Up: After the initial conversation, follow up with your roommate to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Reaffirm your commitment to finding a solution that works for both of you.

• Seek Mediation if Necessary: If the conversation becomes emotionally charged or if you're unable to reach a resolution on your own, consider seeking mediation from a neutral third party. Many colleges offer mediation services specifically for roommate conflicts.

• Learn from the Experience: Regardless of the outcome, view the situation as an opportunity for personal growth and learning. Reflect on what you've learned about yourself, your communication skills, and your preferences in living situations.