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The prospect of meeting your college  

roommate

  for the first time can be intimidating -- after all, you'll be sharing a relatively small space with this stranger. Before you set foot in your dorm room, check out this list of 10 dos and don'ts to help you sustain a healthy roommate relationship.

1. DO keep the lines of communication open.
Talk about minor grievances before they become major issues. Your roommate might not be aware that something is bothering you unless you speak up.

2. DO NOT judge your roommate based on first impressions.
When I first met my college roommate, she was wearing the most garish green and purple nailpolish I had ever seen. Despite this, she has been my best friend throughout college and beyond.

3. DO clean up after yourself.
You may be thrilled that mom's not around to nag you anymore, but it's unfair to expect your roommate to make a path around your dirty clothes and moldy food. Be courteous.

4. DO NOT expect to become best friends.
Everyone wants the dream roommate experience, but not everyone gets it. Adjust your expectations to be more realistic -- respecting each other is a good primary goal.

5. DO be willing to share your stuff.
It's a great idea to share food, clothing, school supplies, etc. as long as you're both comfortable with it. Talk about what items can be shared, and what items are off-limits.

6. DO NOT cook smelly food or wear strong perfume.
Your roommate might be sensitive to these smells or even allergic, and if the smell is in her room, she can't escape it.

7. DO be mindful of your roommate's schedule.
Respect her need for sleep, and don't hit the snooze 15 times before getting up in the morning. Also, if she needs to study in silence, use your headphones.

8. DO NOT gossip about your roommate.
If you do this, you're just asking for it. You live in the same dorm. Whatever you say is going to get back to her, and you'll want to crawl under a rock when it does.

9. DO be open to new experiences, cultures, and ways of life.
Your roommate is not going to be exactly like you (and do you really want her to be?). Be respectful of your differences.

10. DO NOT assume anything.
Even if you don't have a problem with overnight guests, there's a good chance that your roommate does. Set ground rules together, and always be willing to compromise.

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