Dorm life is a quintessential part of the college experience today. It’s what every high school student anxiously anticipates when they finally pack their bags and head to orientation day. Though dorm-style living presents a fun setting with nonstop interaction and socialization, it can also be a pretty stressful experience for those who aren’t used to the constant chatter.

Here are 5 important tips for surviving your freshman dorm room:

1. Communicate to your roomie:

Thanks to Facebook, you can make contact with your roommate months before you move in. Take advantage of this time and split up what each of you are going to contribute to the room. Also try and plan out arrival times so you aren’t both trying to move in simultaneously.

2. Be considerate of your roomie:

If you notice your roommate is painfully introverted, or seems to have some kind of disability, be kind to them. This person is going to be living with you whether you like it or not. Start the relationship off on a good note, and be respectful of their space and their needs.

3. Look past first impressions:

You’re going to have an immediate opinion of your roommate and that’s normal. Be sure to allow your opinion of them to mature and develop, however. They deserve a chance.

4. Use your RAs:

There are those bad dorm life stories out there. If your roommate is indeed abusive and out of line, do not hesitate to tell your RA. They are living near you for a reason.

5. Personal space:

No one likes a roommate that hovers around the dorm and never leaves it. Just like you want personal space, so do they.

Be respectful, kind, and considerate of your new roomie. It’ll start everything on a good note.