Here are some tips to make the most of your dorm life.
TIP ONE: Get to know the people on your floor.
If you're living in Armstrong, this statement will definitely come true. When I was in Armstrong last year, most doors on the floor were open if the roommates were there and girls bounced back and forth between rooms on their study breaks. Large groups formed right before dinner and blobs headed to the caf. There was a lot of floor bonding. In Murray, I probably see everyone on my floor everyday, either waiting for an elevator, in the bathroom, or at the entrance of Murray. So say hi, ask how they're doing, talk about classes or weekend plans. Part of the Coe experience is getting to know a lot of people on campus and why not start with some of the people you see the most: the people who live on your floor.
TIP TWO: Keep common areas clean.
It's common sense really. Areas like the bathroom, showers, or utility sinks (in Murray). If you make a mess, clean it up. There are janitors who clean the dorms during the week but they shouldn't have to be responsible for a large mess you created.
TIP THREE: Communicate with your roommate when you're leaving the room so someone doesn't get locked out.
I never got locked out, but I knew of friends who did. You just have to call security and they will let you in, but it's embarrassing and unnecessary if you communicate with your roommate. But this doesn't happen too often; by the end of the first week, you'll be connect with your ID card and key -- it will become an extension of you. But oversights can happen from time to time.
TIP FOUR: Communication with your roommate is key and will make sure the both of you have a successful and fun year.
More communication tips I know but listen to this one. Your roommate is an important part of your college experience and you want to make sure things go well on this front. You'll make a contract at the beginning of the year with them laying out guidelines such as a guest policy, a cleaning policy, etc. If something comes up later in the year, make sure you say something to your roommate. For instance, if they bring friends in to watch a movie at 1:00 AM on a Saturday morning and you need to be up in five hours for something, let your roommate know they will have to alter their plans. Remember, you are sharing a room so try to keep both you and your roommate happy.
TIP FIVE: Be prompt on your laundry.
In Murray it takes around 45 minutes for a wash and then the dry is whatever you set it as. Nothing annoys me more than trying to wash my clothes but all the washers are full but have already completed their cycle. I normally avoid moving peoples' clothes to the dryer or onto a nearby chair (if they are dry and occupying a dryer I need) but will if I really need to get wash done. Set a watch when you start your laundry so you can change the load and open up a washer for someone new.