Roommates must learn to survive

Big ones, small ones, random ones, old ones. \nLiving with roommates can be difficult no matter how they’re packaged. While some roommates pair randomly and enjoy a year of roommate perfection, others sever the bond of high school friendship. Some never even speak.\nBut IU students have advice on how to survive a roommate relationship.\nAdam Buehler, a senior in history and political science, is a resident living in an IU Real Estate house. Buehler knew his four roommates before move-in day. \nHe suggested that problems between roommates arise from different habits and lifestyles, adding the single kitchen and refrigerator in his house might pose a problem for some roommates. Buehler said communication is an important strategy for working together. \n“Communication is key,” Buehler said. “For example, the game is on tonight and I want to watch it.” \nBuehler suggested roommates claim the television in advance and inform roommates when a girlfriend or boyfriend might be coming over. This type of communication allows them to work together and plan in advance. Buehler said his roommates take turns cleaning around the house.\nAmelia Gohn, a junior majoring in mathematics and art, lives off campus with her parents. Before moving back in with her folks, Gohn paired randomly with a roommate at Purdue. Gohn said the two rarely talked and did not get along. \n“Two conversations. Short ones throughout the semester,” Gohn said of the minimal interaction the two had. \nGohn said she has no tips for future roommates, but said revenge is sweet. She once baked a cake for her roommate’s birthday and enjoyed listening to the praises of her roommate’s friends. Gohn said it annoyed her roommate to hear all of her friends tell her what a terrific roommate Gohn was. \nTodd Woodruff also lives with a family member. Woodruff, a freshman, lives off-campus with his brother, his brother’s girlfriend and a friend. Woodruff said the four split the cost of utilities. He suggests other students try to live off campus. \nHe said he enjoys living in his home and with his roommates, but there are always some inconveniences.\n“On weekends I wake up to band practice,” he said.