Living in the dorms can be a time in your life that you will never forget. If you do it correctly, you can have lots of memories and make lots of new friends. However, there are some things to remember as you are embarking on dorm life.

First of all, try to get along with your roommate. Remember that no one is going to be just like you, but if you really work hard you can get along with anyone you’d like. Try to set down some ground rules right away, and then be sure that you stick by your sides of the bargain. It might be fun to have drama, but you don’t want to be living in it. Be sure that you can get along with your roommate, but if you cannot, try to get your own room or transfer.

Next, remember to respect the rules of the dorm that you live in. If there are quite hours, be sure that you abide by them. If there are certain things that you aren’t supposed to do, just don’t do them. It might not seem like that bit of a deal right now, but once you’ve lived there for awhile you are going to appreciate it when everyone else follows the rules. Be sure that you do as well. You’ll also appreciate it when finals time rolls around and you’re trying to get everything done.

Keep a good schedule for yourself, no matter how crazy things might get. Remember to eat healthy meals on a good schedule. You don’t want to go all day without eating and then eat a fattening meal right before you sleep. Be sure that you are eating three meals a day. Try to get as much sleep as possible. You might have to stay up late nights to study or do homework, but see if you can schedule yourself so that you don’t have to. If you can do your homework in the afternoon, you might be able to get some decent sleep. Remember that your years in the dorms might be more enjoyable if you aren’t tired all the time, so see if you can stick to a good schedule.

Most of all, try to lighten up. This is a time for experimenting, trying new things, and getting along with brand new people. If you can simply let things go and not be uptight about things, you’ll find that you are in a position to enjoy your surroundings even more.