So I was recently talking to my older sister about how different our college experiences are so far- different majors, different age groups, different...
This post features advice on how to deal with a weird college roommate.
You know, College is all fun and games until you realize you have to share a tiny space with a complete stranger.
Just let that sink in for a second.
You’ll be sleeping in a confined space with this random person you’ve literally never met! How messed up is that?
I mean some people are lucky enough to be roommates with the most chill people they’ve ever met.
Others of us aren’t as lucky…
I mean, I could on forever about the horrors I went through with that one girl and her weirdo boyfriend my freshman year. It was literally the worst year of my life!
But this isn’t about me.
I’m guessing you’re reading because you also have a weird roommate you don’t know how to deal with.
Maybe they sleep with their eyes open or collect creepy dolls, or maybe she sneaks her creepy boyfriend into your dorm room at night just so they can have really loud sex while you’re trying to sleep 6 feet from them. (No, I am not making this up..)
Whatever your situation may be though, I feel like the advice I’m about to give will apply to everyone. So in the spirit of keeping our sanities…
Here’s how to survive (and maybe even thrive) while living with a weird roommate!
6 tips for dealing with a weird roommate.
1. Keep an Open Mind
It’s really easy to make conclusions about people without actually knowing who they are, especially when you have different interests.
So before you write them off as the weirdest person on the planet, take a step back.
Everyone comes from different backgrounds, and what seems super strange to you might be totally normal for them.
You never know—you might actually end up liking their quirks.
Or at least understand them a little better if you do…
2. Set Boundaries (ASAP)
Weird or not, every roommate situation needs some ground rules. If their habits start messing with your sleep, study time, or personal space, it’s time to talk. Be chill but clear:
- “Hey, I respect your love for blasting heavy metal, but can we keep it to headphones after 10 p.m.?”
- “I don’t mind your friends hanging out, but can we set a time limit so I can get some quiet time?”
- Can ya’ll not have sex while I’m in the room?
Simple, easy, clear.
3. Find Something in Common
Even the weirdest person probably has some common ground with you.
Maybe you both hate that one professor, or like debating politics, or maybe you can bond over a TV show.
I don’t know girl, just find something!
You’re gonna be living with this person for two semesters at least, it’s in your best interest to make an effort…
4. Decide What’s Actually a Problem
Okay, so they talk to their plants like they’re old friends.
Weird? Yes.
Hurting you? Nope.
Some quirks are just part of who they are, and if it doesn’t actually affect your life, it might be best to just let it go.
Better that than loud late-night sex right?
5. Be Straight Up, Not Petty
Now this is one hundred percent a pot calling a kettle black situation, but being petty is a no.
I know sometimes it really can’t be helped, but you gotta make the effort babes.
Please don’t be out here making snarky comments, or subtweeting them! If something really bothers you, talk to them like a normal person.
Instead of saying “OMG, someone keeps stealing my things. Wonder who it could be?” while staring directly at them; be the bigger person. Say “ Hey, I’ve noticed you use my stuff sometimes. Can you ask first?”
This way you can at least try to maintain a healthy dynamic…
6. Laugh It Off When You Can
Sometimes, the best way to deal with weirdness is to just embrace it.
If your roommate has a habit of organizing their sock drawer by “vibe,” maybe that’s just who they are.
A little humor can make the situation way less stressful.
7. Find Your Own Space
If their quirks start getting on your nerves, find places to escape—hang out in the library, the student lounge, or a friend’s dorm where you can actually be productive.
Having a “safe space” outside of your room will do wonders for keeping you sane.
And if you ever wake up one day and wanna choose violence, at least you have somewhere to cool off…
8. Talk to Your RA If Things Get Really Bad
If their weirdness crosses a line—like breaking rules, being disrespectful, or making you feel unsafe (emphasis on the word unsafe!) —don’t hesitate to talk to your RA.
That’s literally their job, and they can help mediate or even find you a new room if things get unbearable.
If there’s ever a time to snitch, this is it…
9. Remember: This Won’t Last Forever
At the end of the day, this is temporary.
Even if your roommate is the biggest weirdo on earth, and you’re waiting with bated breath to say sayonara, you won’t be stuck with them forever.
You can take solace in that, at least…
Got a weird roommate story? Drop it in the comments!
