Williams also weighs in how to deal with problems if they do come up: “If your roommate is doing something that's annoying you, tell him or her - nicely, if possible,” she says. “When things are awkward, it's sometimes easier to do this the passive-aggressive way - like leaving a Post-It note on her mirror or putting their smelly tennis shoes in the garbage. While easier in the short run, in the long run this only makes things worse - especially if you're sharing a small space. So try to be direct. And whether you're best friends or relative strangers, it's always good to maintain some personal space, even if it's just the size of a twin bed and an hour with your earphones on. Everyone needs some ‘me time.’”