Moving into a dorm can be tough, but we’ve got your back. Use the following tips to make the transition to college housing easier.

Get a head start on getting to know your roommate. Since you’ll be sharing a small living space for at least a semester, it’s important to strike up a relationship with your soon-to-be roommate ASAP. (Hint: Facebook makes pre-college introductions easier than ever before.) Coordinate dorm décor and make a list of who’s bringing what before move-in day. By the time you hit campus, you’ll at least have one friend.

Be prepared for change and uncomfortable situations. Dorm life is nothing like what you’re used to at home, even if you have siblings. Get used to the idea of communal bathrooms, sharing your space (if you don’t already) and dealing with different – sometimes difficult – personalities. You’ll live with your roommate all year (or for at least one semester), so try to resolve any conflicts like the independent adult you’ve become.

Make friends.  The great thing about dorm life is you’re surrounded by people who are all going through the same thing. It’ll serve you well to know your neighbors, as well as your dormitory’s Resident Advisors (RAs) – you can make some lasting college contacts this way, and you can form a valuable sense of community. And don’t forget to meet and exchange contact info with classmates; study buddies are the key to surviving finals week.

Stay healthy. Dorms are full of germs. Close quarters, fewer hours of sleep, busy cafeterias and sick roommates make colds, the flu, mono or other ailments easy to catch. Wash your hands regularly and stockpile Mom’s favorite remedies/medicines in your dorm. Vitamins and hand sanitizer are must-haves too. Also, locate the campus nurse or health center to gain easy access to treatment when needed.

Know the rules. Most dorms have policies about noise, guests and cleanliness. (No smoking, no candles, no pets, no extension cords, no toaster ovens, no loud music, no coed visitors after midnight, etc.) While these may feel like a total drag, they’re in place to keep you safe and comfortable. Nobody likes the guy blaring music during midterms, so be considerate and respect any dorm policies.

Know what to pack—and what to leave at home. It’s tempting to take everything with you, but don’t. Trust us. You won’t need your high school track medals or kindergarten graduation scrapbook. Remember, you’re moving into a tiny dorm, which you have to share. Save space for essentials that you’ll use regularly, and avoid bringing expensive belongings. Roommates are notorious for “borrowing.”