$JES 983 Being Jain In College An Experiential Guide 2nd Edition

Author(s): Sonali Vakharia
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

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ROOMMATES AND DORM LIFE
It's important to know that other perspectives exist. Everyone is raised differently, so you must accept these things about others. It took me a long time to learn to do this, but I am happier now that I can accept people the way they are. If you need to, get two refrigerators or use separate shelves in the same fridge, have a pre-established cleaning day, take the trash out more often. Work with your roommate and be tolerant and understanding of your differences.
Developing the Roommate Relationship
You don't have to be best friends with your roommate. Sometimes all you need is a mutual agreement to live in the same room. At the same time, it is great to establish a good relationship with your roommate by bonding, doing things together, etc. But, if you eventually find that your roommate is not your "type," and you've gotten "close" too fast, it would be difficult and offensive to "back off."
Spend time with your roommate and get to know them, but also try to get to know other people and keep your independence. You don't have to do everything with your roommate, and your roommate shouldn't do everything with you. However, in time of need, try to be there for your roommate when possible. You live together, and it's always nice to feel like you have someone there that you can depend on. It could be something as simple as letting your roommate know you can give them a call if they need someone to pick them up and get home safely. I'll give you some examples:
Luckily, my roommate turned out to be my best friend in college. One time, I got so sick that I almost had to go to the hospital. I needed an anti-nausea medication that my dad (who is a physician) prescribed and called into the pharmacy for me. I was so sick; I couldn't leave my apartment. I called about 8 people to help me out to pick up my prescription for me because my roommate didn't have a car and couldn't drive my mini-van. None of them were there for me or willing to help me out. My roommate ended up calling up some random person who she tutored to take her to Walgreens to pick up my prescription. This might be an extreme situation - I am positive you will find many people who
BEING JAIN IN COLLEGE
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