College 101: continued

By: Ocean Medlock

Rooming and Making Friends:
For most students, college is basically your new home. There are such exciting things that come with that like finding a roommate and making new friends. The first step is finding someone to live with for the upcoming school year, there are many different ways to find a roommate. Florida schools, like the University of Central Florida, have sections on their website for upcoming students that lets them fill out different things about them and things they prioritize, it will then match different students together who share the same interests as a potential roommate. Most schools allow the opportunity to let students choose their own roommate though, which is the most common option. This is if they have a friend attending the school with them or they find someone through social media. On Instagram, universities typically have an account specifically created for incoming freshmen to share a post about their interests and a photo of themselves for people to find someone similar to them. If they do, they can direct message them and discuss if they’d like to room together. If not, it is still a great way to see their upcoming friends/classmates. The last idea for rooming is randomized rooming selection. This option is mainly for people who are pretty open to rooming with anyone and can share a space respecting anyone’s living needs. The school will choose someone as their roommate and it requires little to no work, just an open mind.
Roommates are great ways to make friends, former Nease student, Kathleen Strafford who attends the University of North Florida, says, “Living on campus and having roommates is a great opportunity to meet new people. Talking to the people around you in classes can also be a great way to not only meet people but allow you to have support in difficult classes. College will get hard at one point or another so it is good to have people that can help you study or just cheer you on during those tough times.” She also explains how getting involved and meeting new people is all about stepping outside of your comfort zone and putting yourself out there, “It can be scary in a new place however it is such an important part of college to get involved and put yourself out there.”
There are plenty of ways to shy away from those negative stereotypes and make college a fun experience. College is what is made of it, walking in with a positive attitude and a good mindset is the best way to go. Good luck Nease Seniors!

Read the rest of this story in the Senior Issue of The Vertical!