As an underclassman, getting with roommates can be a hit or a miss, depending on if you go potluck (assigned a roommate by random) or not. Sometimes she gets on your nerves, leaving the light on in the morning while you're still sleeping, or he comes back to the dorm to study after the library has closed and you're trying to sleep. It can be difficult, but only if you let it become difficult.
You see, communication is key in every situation and doing well to communicate your concerns can go a long way in actually becoming closer to your roommate! I may not be an underclassman anymore, but the use of clear communication is more important than ever now that I live in the apartments.
Since my roommates and I all juniors, it's our first time living with more than just one person. In the apartments, there are normally five to six people who live together. We have seven. Somehow, we've managed to cram all of our beds into one of the two bedrooms while dedicating the other as a study room. In our living room, three TV's, three sound systems, five couches, and a Lay-z-boy is crammed into every space and corner. But it's okay. It does'nt feel crowded. It feels like home.
An inside look on my apartment. Pictured (left) is Jake Brouwer, working studiously on his homework and (right) Jonathan Beltman typing up a paper. Feel free to stop by Southview 208 anytime. The door's always open.
Since the beginning of the school year, my roommates and I engage and do things with each other a lot. Together, we take turns cooking for our whole apartment three to four times a week. Together, we watch our roommates on the soccer pitch while reclining on our couches. Together, we go hammocking in the Prayer Garden or at the Unfinished Bridge. Together, we ride our longboards. Together, we sleep. Together, we study. Together, we play games. Together, we participate in Airband. Together, we laugh, Together, we share our lives with each other. Together, we live.
Dordt, as a school, has always focused on building and creating community, and living on campus is an awesome way to engage with fellow roommates. I love it. I've grown so much closer in friendship with these guys and cannot wait to see what's next.
Until next time,
-Ian
P.S. Here's a video that one of my roommates made of us on one of our adventures.