Let’s face it. Living with a roommate can be awesome, awkward, and occasionally chaotic. Whether you’re moving in with your best friend, someone you found through a roommate-matching site, or a friend-of-a-friend from orientation, sharing a space comes with a learning curve.
The good news? You don’t need to be exactly alike to live together peacefully. With a little communication and some common sense, you can avoid passive-aggressive post-its and keep your student apartment drama-free.
Here’s your guide to surviving and thriving in a shared apartment near UMass Amherst.
1. Talk about expectations early
It’s tempting to assume you’re on the same page, but don’t skip this step. Sit down and go over the basics like:
- How often to clean
- What’s shared vs. off-limits
- Guest policy
- Quiet hours (especially during exam season)
- Who takes out the trash
At Meadow View, you’ll have the space to breathe. The roomy layouts mean you won’t feel like you’re on top of each other, which makes things easier from the start.
2. Respect each other’s space and stuff
This should go without saying, but ask before borrowing. Whether it’s snacks, shampoo, or the comfiest blanket on the couch, make it a habit to ask first. Respect goes a long way in keeping things chill.
And when you have your own room and storage space like you do at Meadow View, it’s easier to set boundaries without creating tension.
3. Keep the shared areas clean
No one wants to be the only one doing dishes or wiping down the bathroom counter. Try splitting chores or rotating responsibilities weekly. You don’t have to be spotless, just considerate.
Meadow View has on-site laundry care centers, so keeping up with laundry is easy. No more excuses or pileups in the corner.
4. Communicate like adults (even if you don’t feel like one yet)
If something’s bothering you, bring it up calmly and privately. Don’t let small annoyances snowball into full-blown roommate resentment. A quick check-in over coffee is better than stewing in silence.
The quiet, laid-back vibe at Meadow View helps keep things calm. It’s easier to talk things out when you’re not surrounded by constant noise or stress.
5. Make time to actually hang out
You don’t have to be best friends, but it helps to have a friendly relationship. Grab takeout, do a Target run together, or watch a show once a week. Building a little connection can make roommate life smoother and more enjoyable.
With outdoor picnic areas and nearby walking paths, Meadow View gives you lots of low-key ways to spend time together outside of the apartment.
The takeaway? Roommate life doesn’t have to be a struggle.
With a bit of effort and the right living environment, it can actually be one of the best parts of your college experience.
At Meadow View, our student-friendly apartments near UMass Amherst are designed to make shared living easier. From open floor plans and on-site laundry to peaceful green space and a welcoming community, it’s a great place to enjoy off-campus life without the drama.
Schedule a tour of Meadow View today and start fresh in a place that feels like home.
