Dear Peer,

My roommate constantly uses my stuff. It’s like she has zero boundaries. From my toothpaste to my canned goods to my pots and pans- nothing is safe. I think the worst part is that she doesn’t just use my stuff, she rarely puts it back the way she finds it or takes care of my things the way that I do. It’s honestly driving me crazy! I kind of don’t want to say anything because I don’t want to make things awkward. I graduate in May, so it’s only a few more months to deal with her, but I honestly don’t know if I can take it or if it’s even worth it. What should I do?

Signed,

My Stuff Is MINE

Dear MINE,

It sounds like you need to just bite the bullet and have a discussion with your roommate. If you’re uncomfortable, you can arrange a meeting with a peer or an RA acting as a mediator, but something needs to be done. There is no reason that you should have to be uncomfortable in your own home for any amount of time, not even a few months. You pay rent and you also paid money for your things, if she hasn’t contributed to the cost and you don’t want her using your stuff, you shouldn’t have to. You aren’t obligated to share. She should understand that, but she never will if you don’t speak up. Just because you say something is bothering you, doesn’t mean that a confrontation will ensue. Just be honest and say how you feel.

Good luck,

Your Peer

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