As I looked back at the year I had experienced, I found myself thinking about how lucky I was. I’d been to be able to gain friendships within my flatmates that I felt able to survive five nights of camping at Leeds with them. My mum would probably argue that it isn’t all just luck, however, and we all put effort into forging these bonds. So, what are some simple things you can do to make sure you get along with your flatmates?
For this year, they are your family and (luckily or not), we don’t get to pick our family.
The best piece of advice I received from older students was to simply throw yourself into everything your flatmates do. Fancy going for an explore? Absolutely. Would you help put some posters up in the girl’s room next door? Of course. Saying no is only going to limit yourself. And don’t worry if these aren’t the main people you can see yourself being friends with. For this year, they are your family and (luckily or not), we don’t get to pick our family. They might be completely different from you, and that’s okay.
It's also worth bearing in mind that all of you are in the same position, waiting for someone to make the first move. If it gets to move-in day and you haven’t seen anyone, just go and knock on everyone’s door and get to the pub.
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