Selecting a college major can feel a little overwhelming: You’re about to pick something that could shape the next few years of your education and your future career. With some thought, self-reflection and research, however, you’ll be able to make a choice that feels right for you. Here are some tips to help guide you:

Start with your interests and strengths.

It may seem obvious, but think about what you love to do. What do you enjoy learning about? What are your hobbies and passions? Your interests are a great place to start, because they can help point you toward a major you’ll find engaging and fulfilling. Also, consider the school subjects in which you excel. When choosing a major, you’ll want to pick something that both excites you and plays to your strengths.

Northwestern College’s Compass Center for Career & Calling offers PathwayU assessments that will give you insights into your personality, strengths, interests and values.

Explore potential careers.

A major isn’t just an academic discipline; it’s a stepping stone to your future career. Think about what kind of work you can see yourself doing after college. Some majors are directly tied to specific jobs—such as accounting, engineering or nursing—while others, like psychology or social enterprise, might lead to a variety of career paths. As you research careers, find out what majors lend themselves well to the roles you’re interested in.

Northwestern’s PathwayU assessments will suggest possible career matches based on your answers. The Compass Center also has resources with information about what different jobs entail, their earning potential, and their projected growth.

Be open to change.

Many college students change their major at least once. You don’t need to have everything figured out before you step onto campus. Sometimes, exposure to new subjects and experiences can shift or refocus your perspective.

An estimated 20% to 50% of students enter college undecided about their major. At Northwestern College, if you’re one of them, you’ll be assigned a career counselor who will serve as your adviser, help you register for classes, and guide you in selecting a major.

Talk to those who know you.

Don’t be afraid to ask for advice! Your parents, teachers and school counselors are great resources, as they can offer insights into your strengths and weaknesses and might even suggest careers or majors you hadn’t considered. College advisers are also experts at guiding students through the process of choosing a major and can help you understand how your academic interests translate into real-world careers.

Consider the long-term outlook.

While it’s important to follow your passion, you also need to think about future career opportunities. Some fields have a higher earning potential or stronger job security. Others might not offer as high of a salary but will still lead to the satisfaction of serving others or doing what you love.

Trust yourself.

Finally, remember that this decision is yours to make. College is a time for growth and exploration, so trust yourself to make the best choice based on what you know now. You might not have everything figured out yet, and that’s OK. No matter what major you choose, it’s your ability to learn, adapt and grow that will ultimately shape your future.

A Northwestern College education will teach you to think critically, write clearly and speak articulately—invaluable skills no matter what career you pursue. The ability to learn is the most important quality you can have when facing this ever-changing world.

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If you're thinking about a major in education, whether elementary or secondary, you’ve got a lot of options—but a Christian college might be the right choice for you.

Take Marshall Kleinhesselink, a recent grad from Northwestern College who now teaches science and coaches football at a public high school. For him, the Christian college experience was life-changing. “A Christian education teaches you to use your gifts for God’s glory,” he says, “and to impact the people around you.”

Here are five reasons to consider a Christian college for your education degree:

1. You’ll discover your God-given gifts.

Christian colleges help you recognize your unique talents and teach you how to use them to make a difference. Whether it’s connecting with students or finding creative ways to teach, your gifts matter, and you'll learn how to use them for good.

2. You’ll learn to care for yourself and others.

Teaching is about more than lessons—it’s about showing love, patience and kindness. At a Christian college, you’ll explore how to bring these values into the classroom while learning how to care for yourself and avoid burnout.

3. You’ll get real-world skills for managing expectations.

Teaching can be tough, but at a Christian college, you’ll learn to manage the challenges and stay motivated. Professors understand that teaching is a calling and will help you navigate the demands with a positive mindset.

4. You’ll prepare to serve.

Teaching isn’t just about giving assignments; it’s about serving your students. You’ll be taught to lead with kindness, encourage others, and inspire those “aha” moments in the classroom. Your professors will show you how to approach teaching with a servant-leader mindset.

5. You’ll build a caring community.

One of the best parts of a Christian college is the tight-knit community. You’ll be surrounded by classmates and professors who share your values, support you through your journey, and cheer you on as you become a teacher.

If you want to live out your faith while making a difference as a teacher, a Christian college could be the perfect fit. You’ll grow in both your education and your faith, building skills to serve your students, manage teaching challenges, and connect with a supportive community.

Northwestern College, Iowa’s Standout Christian College, has a long history of producing award-winning teachers and ranks #1 in Best Colleges for Education in Iowa by Niche.com. We offer majors in elementary education, secondary education, special education teaching and education studies. Check us out!

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The college search process can feel like a rollercoaster ride for both parents and high school students. It's an exciting, yet stressful, time that will shape your son or daughter’s future. As a parent, it's common to feel the weight of helping your child navigate this crucial decision.

To help you on this journey, here are some key do’s and don’ts for parents during the college search process. These tips will help you strike the right balance between providing guidance and giving your child the independence they need to make a decision.

Do’s

1. Be a supportive sounding board.

Your role is to listen and offer advice when asked, knowing it’s essential to let your child lead the decision-making process. Create a calm environment for open discussions, where your child feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and concerns. Respect their unique perspective and remember that this is ultimately their journey.

2. Help research college options.

With thousands of colleges to choose from, it can be difficult for students to know where to start. Help them narrow down their options by focusing on key factors such as size, academic programs, location, campus culture, and faith emphasis (if that’s important to your child). Together, look at websites, visit campuses and encourage your child to explore schools that meet their academic, social and extracurricular interests.

The college search website Niche is a great resource to help you find colleges that check the boxes on your student’s college wish list. If you’re looking for a Christian college with strong faith and standout academics, be sure to check out Northwestern College.

3. Foster open communication.

Maintaining open communication throughout the search is key. Let your child know that you’re there to talk—whether they’re feeling overwhelmed, excited or uncertain. Regular check-ins can help you stay in the loop about their thoughts and progress while giving them the space to process things in their own time.

4. Set a realistic budget.

College tuition can be a big investment, so it’s important to have a clear understanding of what’s feasible from a financial standpoint. Have an honest discussion about your family’s budget as well as the need for financial aid, scholarships and/or student loans. This helps your child make decisions that are financially responsible while also exploring schools that offer the features they want. Keep in mind that the “sticker price” in most cases will be reduced by scholarships from the college, and you’ll want to compare the bottom line before your student makes a final decision.

At Northwestern College, 100% of students receive financial aid. In fact, we guarantee that your student, if accepted, will receive at least $15,000 in scholarships and grants upon enrollment. For more information on Northwestern’s affordable Christian education, visit nwciowa.edu/financial-aid.

5. Respect your child’s independence and preferences.

It’s important to remember that your child is growing into an adult, and this is a big decision for their future. Respect their wishes, even if they differ from your expectations. Whether it’s about the size of the school, its location, or its academic programs, support your child in finding a college that’s a good fit for them.

Don’ts

1. Don’t overwhelm your child with too much information.

The vast amount of information about colleges can be overwhelming. As a parent, it’s tempting to bombard your child with lists of schools, rankings and brochures. Instead of pushing your child in a dozen different directions, try to help them focus on schools that align with their goals and interests.

2. Don’t push your alma mater (or your own preferences) too hard.

While it’s natural to want your child to attend the same school you did, avoid imposing your own preferences. Just because your alma mater might have been the perfect fit for you doesn’t mean it will be right for your child. Let your child explore options that feel right for them, rather than feeling pressured to follow in your footsteps.

3. Don’t make it about you.

It’s easy to focus on your desires during the college search—how proud you’ll be, what your friends will think, or which school looks the best on paper. But the decision should center around your child’s needs and aspirations, not your own. Keep the focus on their future and not yours.

4. Don’t micromanage the process.

It’s important that your child takes ownership of the search. While it’s OK to ask questions of your own or offer your student reminders, avoid taking over the process. Allow your child to fill out forms, write their essays and meet deadlines. It’s an opportunity for them to build independence and learn valuable life skills.

5. Don’t make decisions for them.

Ultimately, the choice of where to attend college should be made by your child, not by you. While you can provide valuable perspective and logistical support, it’s important that your child makes the final decision. This is a significant moment in their life, and they need to feel ownership over it.

The college search is a journey of growth and discovery—for both parents and students. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can help your child find a college that fits their needs and empowers their future. The most important thing is that they feel confident in their choice, knowing you’ve been there to support them every step of the way.

Northwestern College, Iowa’s Standout Christian College, is a place your student can belong and be equipped for life. At Northwestern, your child will have a standout academic experience in a community where they’ll be known and valued. Learn more at nwciowa.edu.

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Visiting a college campus is like getting a sneak peek into your future. You’ll get to see, hear, taste and touch all that the college has to offer. These experiences will then help you decide where you want to start building your future. Be sure to include these things on your campus visit itinerary:

See where you’ll be living

College will be more than just a school; it will be your home. Ask to see a dorm room or other living options on campus. Better yet, ask if you can stay overnight. Tour the spaces where you will be spending most of your time. Think about your personality and lifestyle. Do you plan to do most of your studying in the library? Will you want to work out in the rec center? Are there places you can hang out with friends?

Hear from faculty + students

Your academic experience is one of the most important things to consider. Schedule a time to meet with a professor in an area of study you’re interested in. Ask if you can talk with some current students in that major and get their perspective on why the school is the best choice in your field. Don’t be shy. This is the time to come prepared with your best questions—and lots of them. The more you can learn from faculty and students, the better you’ll be able to decide if that college is the right fit for you.

Get in touch with the culture

Beyond academics, colleges offer so many ways for you to grow, expand your interests and participate in the community. Catch a sporting event, go to a concert, or learn what clubs and organizations are available.

When visiting a Christian college, make time to attend chapel and learn more about faith-based groups and spiritual growth opportunities. At Northwestern College, there are many options for worship with other students. Come on Sunday night for our student-led Praise + Worship service, or visit a Tuesday or Friday chapel featuring messages by faith leaders from across the country, as well as our faculty, staff and students.

Bring your appetite

Brain food is a real thing. To learn well, you need to eat well. Visit the cafeteria and get a taste of what your meal options will be. Ask about other food offerings and accommodations for special diets. Do they have other locations where food is available on campus? Are there coffee shops or any special treats for students (like Warm Cookie Wednesdays at Northwestern)? What nearby dining options are available for those times you want to get off campus with friends?

Explore financial aid

Be sure to talk with college staff about costs, scholarship opportunities and potential loan options. Many schools are working hard to make the investment in your future more affordable. At Northwestern, every accepted student receives at least $15,000 per year in scholarships or grants. That amount will grow depending on your GPA, athletic, esports or performing arts participation, as well as your potential to contribute to Northwestern’s mission through your leadership and involvement. Regardless of your family’s income or your academic achievements, you will gain your best knowledge about real costs and payment options by meeting with an expert in this area.

As you plan your college visits, we’d love for you to make a stop in Orange City, Iowa, to experience Northwestern College for yourself. Schedule an individual visit or sign up for a Raider Day and join others in spending time on our beautiful campus.

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As you look toward embracing the college lifestyle, you might be wondering what you need to know to survive—and thrive—as an incoming freshman. We asked current college students what they wished they had known starting out, and they shared some great advice:

Your roommate might not be your best friend. And that’s OK.

You’ve probably heard the “roomie romance” story before: roommates turned best friends turned attendants in each other’s weddings. It’s not complete fiction—your roommate could become your built-in college bestie! But it’s also OK if your roommate is just someone you share a room with.

Keep the door to your dorm room open.

If you live in a residence hall that encourages connecting with others, consider leaving the door to your dorm room open so that fellow residents feel welcome to stop by and chat. Not only will you get to know the people living closest to you, but you might also make some new friends!

Niche.com ranks Northwestern College as having the best college dorms in the country. Each residence hall is staffed by a full-time resident director and has its own close-knit community and annual traditions.

Don’t procrastinate.

Instead of waiting until the last minute to finish an assignment or cram for an exam, do yourself a favor and prioritize your studies. Use a planner or the notes app on your phone to keep track of deadlines and test dates. Set aside non-negotiable study times and go somewhere you know you won’t be distracted.

Need some homework help? Northwestern’s Student Success Center has 150+ student tutors who offer free academic support in every subject area.

Ask lots of questions and use campus resources.

Your questions can almost always be answered—you just have to ask them! Learn about the support services your college offers, such as on-campus health care and/or counseling, career development services, tutoring, and accessibility accommodations. Then when you need additional support, you’ll know exactly who to turn to.

In addition to free tutoring, Northwestern provides free, confidential counseling services. You can also get help applying for internships, writing a resume and cover letter, learning key interview skills, and more at our Compass Center for Career & Calling.

Get involved!

Another good way to make friends is to get involved with activities you enjoy. Join a club. Play a sport, esports or intramurals. Audition for a theatre production or music ensemble. And whenever you can, attend student life events.

At Northwestern, you may even earn a scholarship for your involvement in athletics, esports, music, theatre or worship arts.

Know that you’re not alone.

Your first year of college is a major adjustment, but remember that every other freshman is in the same boat as you. Whenever you’re struggling, try sharing your concerns with a freshman or upperclassman friend. It’s likely that he or she will understand what you’re going through and may even be aware of resources that could help.

Do you want a college environment where you’ll be loved, known and cared for? Check out our website to learn more about Iowa’s Standout Christian College.

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While it might seem far into the future, your college days will be here before you know it! Junior year is a great time to launch your college search and begin making the most of your last two years of high school. Here’s what we recommend for getting started:

Decide what you want from your college experience.

Are you interested in attending a large, public university or a small, private college? Do you want to attend a Christian college where there will be more opportunities for spiritual growth and development? Are you looking for a school with strong athletic or performing arts programs? Make a list of things that are important to you so you know how well your college options measure up.

Begin your online search.

Check out college websites and learn more about their academic programs, extracurricular activities, campus life, student activities, and mission and values as an institution. College-search resources like Niche can provide a helpful overview of the schools you’re most interested in.

Visit your high school counselor.

Ask your school counselor about upcoming college fairs or visits by college admissions reps. These are both excellent opportunities to talk to someone about the colleges you’re interested in, or even just to learn more about the admissions process. Your counselor might also have additional resources to share that could help you in your college search.

Get involved in high school activities.

Even while you’re thinking about the next stage in your education journey, don’t forget to enjoy high school! Participate in sports, esports, music, drama or any other school activity you think sounds fun. You may even have opportunity to pursue leadership roles such as president of the student council or editor of the school newspaper. Leadership experience looks GREAT on a college resume and might help you qualify for scholarships.

Northwestern College offers scholarships to standout students involved in athletics, esports, music, theatre, worship arts, mission and more. Visit our scholarships page >>  

Estimate your financial need.

Many colleges offer a net price calculator that estimates how much federal, state and institutional financial aid you could receive. This can help you prepare for any out-of-pocket expenses that will need to be covered with private loans, outside scholarships or savings. Also, be sure to research scholarship opportunities offered through your school, church or other service organizations in your community—and make a note in your calendar of when you should apply as a senior.

100% of Northwestern College students receive financial aid, including at least $15,000 per year in Northwestern scholarships and grants.

Take the ACT or SAT.

Many colleges are now test-optional, so taking the ACT or SAT may not be an admissions requirement. Northwestern College is test-optional, but we still encourage students to take the ACT/SAT and offer a scholarship bonus of up to $1,500, depending on your score. And if you qualify to apply for our Honors Program, you could receive an additional $1,500 that’s renewable each year that you remain in the program.

Start earning college credit.

Get a jumpstart on your college course schedule by taking dual-credit courses that give you both high school and college credit. These courses often meet general education requirements, enabling you to start taking courses in your college major sooner. And if you’re a strong student, consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses in your best subjects. A high score on an AP exam might help you “test out” of certain college requirements.

Go on college visits.

The best way to get a sense of what a college has to offer is to visit campus and check things out for yourself! Many colleges have visit days that are tailored specifically to high school juniors, so ask your top college choices if they have that visit option. And be sure to check out our list of questions to ask your college tour guide!

Attend one of Northwestern’s Junior Raider Days next spring! You’ll get to tour campus; attend chapel; eat in our cafeteria; learn about financial aid; and meet students, professors and coaches.  

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If spiritual growth is one of your top goals for college, you might be considering a Christian school. But is the possibly higher price tag worth the investment? We think so—especially if you choose a college that’s intentionally Christian.

At an intentionally Christian college, faith is a central part of the college experience. You’ll likely explore how God’s Word informs course content; talk with teammates, castmates and fellow musicians about honoring God through sports and the performing arts; attend campus worship opportunities; and participate in Bible studies offered in your dorm.

Here are a few other reasons why an intentionally Christian college is worth its weight in gold:

1. You’ll be surrounded by a supportive, Christ-like community.

College is a place of tremendous growth where you start to figure out what you want to do and who you want to be. As you make these big decisions, surrounding yourself with peers and professors who share your faith commitment can provide you with an essential network of support. These friends and mentors can help you make wise choices and encourage you in your walk with Christ.

At Northwestern College, join more than 200 students who gather weekly for discipleship groups in every residence hall and apartment. Together you’ll pray, study the Bible and apply your faith to what you’re learning in the classroom.

2. You’ll experience a thriving campus ministry program.

Although some state schools offer campus ministry opportunities, many of them are student-led and have inconsistent participation. At a Christian college, you’re more likely to find a campus ministry program with full-time staff who are passionate about helping students like you learn more about Jesus. There may even be options to participate in short-term mission trips—or to help plan and lead worship.

Each year, more than 170 Northwestern students participate in short-term missions across the country and around the globe, serving anywhere between 10 days and 10 weeks. In addition, students participate in local service projects, facilitate small-group gatherings, lead music and worship in chapel, and much more. For more information about Northwestern’s campus ministry program, visit nwciowa.edu/faith.

3. You’ll learn to think biblically about issues that matter to you most.

At a Christian college, your professors will approach everything—from the simplest questions to the deepest mysteries—from a biblical perspective, helping you increase your understanding of the world around you, form your personal beliefs, and more readily express Christian values. You will also learn how to apply biblical principles in your future career.

4. You’ll have easy access to spiritual resources.

You can be a Christian at whichever college you choose, but attending an intentionally Christian college provides added accountability by bringing faith to the forefront of student and academic life. Applying your faith in the classroom is excellent practice for considering your faith in your personal life and relationships, helping other areas of your life to thrive. Regularly scheduled campus ministry activities will also make it easier to incorporate worship and prayer into your busy schedule—especially when you know you’ll get to do so with friends!

At Northwestern College, students worship together up to three times per week, and more than 80% attend a local church in addition to NWC chapel services. Sunday night Praise + Worship is one of the most popular events on campus and is led entirely by students.

While a private Christian education might come with some additional expense, the benefits to your spiritual life are priceless. To learn more about Northwestern College—Iowa’s Standout Christian College—visit nwciowa.edu.

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One way to help yourself adjust to the college lifestyle is to get involved on campus. Building relationships and making connections with campus leaders can provide you with a supportive network of people you can trust. But where should you start?

Assess your interests

You may have been involved in a number of activities in high school, but as you enter into this new phase of life, it’s worth taking stock of the activities you’d like to continue. Consider what types of activities bring you joy, enhance your skills and allow you to use your gifts. Give yourself permission to stop pursuing some things so you can make room for new experiences and to focus on your academics.

To help you identify and invest in your interests, the Compass Center for Career & Calling at Northwestern College offers a PathwayU online assessment. This tool gives insight into your personality, strengths and values, and can give you ideas about the types of groups and activities you should pursue.

Learn about your opportunities

Spend time reviewing the college website to learn about groups, clubs and activities offered for students. When you tour campus, pay attention to posters for events and activities. Ask current students, resident assistants and professors about the variety of ways students can be involved in student life and campus leadership.

From clubs to student government, faith groups, and student events, Northwestern’s campus life is full of opportunities to find “your people”. Check out nwciowa.edu/campus-life to learn more.

Set a goal

You know your personality and needs best. If you’re an extrovert who craves being with people, try to get involved in something right away. If you need to take things slowly and get settled first, give yourself time to establish a rhythm before committing to something more. Either way, don’t wait too long to get involved! Set a goal for yourself to be involved in some form of group, club or activity within the first semester.

Northwestern College’s annual fall Involvement Fair is a perfect place to learn about available opportunities and talk with other students about their experiences in various clubs. All new students are strongly encouraged to check out the fair as a first step in getting involved.

Be brave

College is your own experience to shape, and getting involved in campus life will help you learn more about yourself, teach you about life and create lasting memories. Step out in faith and try something you’ve never tried before. The more you invest in your college experience, the more you will gain. So, go for it!

Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa, is a place you can belong and be equipped for life. At Northwestern, you’ll gain a standout academic experience in a community where you’ll be noticed, accepted and valued. Learn more at nwciowa.edu and make plans to visit campus soon.

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If you’re looking for a standout Christian college committed to helping you thrive in faith, academics, relationships and your future career, consider making Northwestern College your “home away from home.” You’ll find that Raider Nation is a place where faculty and staff are passionate about getting to know you for YOU and helping you discover God’s calling for your life. Check out these 8 reasons why Northwestern is Iowa’s Standout Christian College:

1. You’ll get a top-rated education. We have the test scores to prove it.

Northwestern students consistently achieve top scores in accounting, pre-med, nursing, psychology and more. Here are some highlights:

• 100% nursing board pass rate (2023)
• MCAT scores in the top 10% worldwide (2020)
• Ranking in the top 4% on a psychology benchmark exam (2021)
• In 2023, 3 of the 5 candidates who passed the South Dakota CPA exam on their first try were NWC grads.

2. Your Raider resume will impress employers and grad schools.

For the last 5 years, 99% of Northwestern graduates have been employed or enrolled in graduate school within 6 months of graduation. 80% of pre-med students are accepted to med school the first time they apply, and 81% of NWC alumni who pursue advanced degrees say that Northwestern prepared them well for the academic rigor of grad school.

3. As a Raider, you’ll take part in world-class research.

More than 60 Northwestern students have peer-reviewed publications based on their research, thanks to collaborative research with Northwestern faculty. Professors have been awarded research grants by the National Science Foundation, Templeton Religion Trust and American Psychological Association. Here are just a few of the current research opportunities students are involved in:

• SEA-PHAGES, a global effort to discover phages (viruses that infect bacteria) and sequence and annotate their DNA
• SEA-GENES, in which students discover unknown functions of viral genes
• Data collection on the mental health of Ukrainian refugees living in the U.S.

4. Raiders win.

Northwestern is a top-5 NAIA college for student-athletes for a reason. Since 2019, our volleyball and football teams have made five appearances at NAIA nationals, including a football national championship in 2022 and a volleyball national runners-up distinction in 2023. Over the past year, we’ve also had five teams earn GPAC regular-season or tournament titles.

5. Generous financial aid.

Every student admitted to Northwestern is guaranteed $15,000 in scholarships and grants each year. That’s $60,000 over the course of 4 years. Raiders have an average out-of-pocket cost of $16,000 per year, so you may pay less to attend Northwestern than you would at a state university.

6. You’ll grow in your faith and serve God’s kingdom.

Christian formation will be a key component of your Northwestern experience. In fact, 95% of students living in residence halls say that attending Northwestern has helped them grow in their trust, love and worship of God. You’ll study the Bible with your dormmates, hear from leading voices in the church during chapel, and have opportunities to serve around the world through short-term missions.

7. Raider residence life is unlike the rest.

Raiders love living on campus. In a recent residence life survey, 95% of students said they were satisfied or very satisfied with their res life experience. Unlike many other colleges, we don’t have freshmen-only dorms at NWC. Instead, you’ll live among upperclassmen who have been in your shoes and can help support you in your transition to college life.

8. There’s so much to do, you won’t want to leave.

Northwestern isn’t a suitcase college—in other words, students don’t pack up and head home after classes end on Friday. When you’re not studying, you’ll stay busy attending student activities like The Masked Singer, a swing dance with a live jazz band, late-night ice skating, pancakes with NWC’s president, or movie nights at the local movie theatre. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to:

• Cheer on the Raiders at home athletic events
• Play intramurals that range from foosball and chess to pickleball and sand volleyball
• Attend NWC theatre productions and music concerts
• Check out professional and student art exhibits on campus
• Hang out with your dormmates at all-hall events
• …and more!

Ready to take the next step? Visit us at nwciowa.edu/BeARaider to get started.

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Built-in bestie or certified slob? Life with a roommate can have its ups and downs, but as long as you’re honest with one another about your needs and expectations, sharing a living space is a great opportunity to get to know someone new and grow in your communication skills. Here are 6 keys to cohabitating with ease:

1. Manage your expectations.

Don’t move into your dorm assuming that your roommate is going to be your best friend. Not everyone wants to be close to their roommate, so be pleasantly surprised if your roommate relationship becomes a friendship. You may even consider asking your roommate about the type of relationship he or she hopes to have with you and others living on your floor.

2. Establish rules of the room.

At the start of the semester, tell your roommate what you need to thrive in your living environment. Are you an early bird who likes to go to bed before 10? Set a time for lights out. Do you usually study between class and dinner? Request quiet time during your daily homework session. Be sure to talk about when guests can hang out in your room and when it’s OK to talk on the phone, too.

3. Respect your roommate’s personal space.

Your dorm room belongs to more than just you, so be respectful of your roommate’s space and things. Ask before you borrow something and return it in a timely manner. If you break what you borrowed, pay to fix or replace it.

4. Be clean and considerate.

No one wants to find your dirty underwear on the floor or end up sitting in the crumbs you left on the futon. Plenty of roommate conflicts can be avoided by simply cleaning up after yourself.

5. Work out conflict together—and ask for help when you need it.

If you have an issue with your roommate, don’t trash-talk him or her when you’re with friends or other students living in your dorm. Instead, arrange a time to sit down with your roommate and resolve the problem as adults. Allow your roommate to share how he or she is feeling and listen well. If you can’t come up with a solution on your own, ask for help from a resident assistant or resident director.

6. Get to know your roommate.

Even if you don’t become best friends, it’s still a good idea to get to know your roommate and find out what interests them. Ask about their hometown, family, hobbies and extracurricular activities. If you see a funny Instagram reel that you think would make your roommate laugh, pass it along, or offer to bring him or her a favorite coffee drink if you’re headed to the coffee shop. A little kindness can go a long way in building a strong foundation for your roommate relationship.

At Northwestern College, helping you thrive in the dorms is a top priority of our residence life staff. In addition to trained student resident assistants who live just down the hall 24/7, each of our dorms has a professional resident director who can support you as you navigate living with a roommate, homesickness, developing healthy lifestyle habits and more. Learn about our standout residence life experience at nwciowa.edu/residence-life.

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