Making Roommates Work

So my daughters are striking out on their own around the same time and will soon have the joy of sharing their living space with someone other than family.  Yep, they're gonna get roommates!  I've had a variety of roommates starting at age 15 until I completed college at 22.  I haven't said too much to my daughters about what it's like – they haven't particularly paid attention to much of my advice about keeping their room straightened or picking up after themselves around the house.  I figured the sweetest revenge was waiting until someone else called them out on their stuff – thus allowing me to come out on the better end of things! 

Some of my roommate experiences have been great – giving me the chance to make some lasting friendships and the opportunity to learn about other cultures like Egypt and Hawaii – while others have been a real disaster – like the one roommate who used to snore loudly in-between conversations in her sleep with Captian Kirk and Spock from Star Trek.  One roommate introduced me to my husband and was my maid of honor – so that turned out rather well! 

If I were to give my kids any advice I would tell them to respect the boundaries of the space they share but to also speak up if something is bothering them … a life lesson they can use in many other situations and relationships.

But I'm sure you've got some great tips to share – so weigh in – what's your best roommate advice?

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