When it comes to college, many people aren’t as worried about the classes as they are about sharing a room with a stranger.

So what does it take to be a good roommate? Residential Assistants have some of the best advice when it comes to this situation; they’ve heard it all.

Jada West on 4th floor of Tower and Ericka Burse on 1st floor of Searcy agree that a good roommate is someone that has great communication skills and can break the ice, especially before school starts. A good roommate is also someone willing to compromise.

When it comes to a bad roommate, their views differ about what makes a bad combination. Based on personal experience, it’s better not to room with a friend, West says.

“Having a roommate that has a different major and different interests makes it interesting. It also lets us have our own personal time and space when the other is out,” West said.

Burse had a situation where two girls had to part ways after constantly bumping heads. One girl enjoyed late nights while the other preferred to stay in and before long the girls had to separate.

But there’s no reason to fear sharing a room with someone, it can be a lot of fun. Just make sure to know what you want out of a roommate.

In college, your roommate can be the first-and best-person you meet.