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10. Movie night
It’s a classic for a reason. Whether you’re rewatching the “Harry Potter” series for the 10th time or catching up with the next episode of “Squid Game,” enjoying a good movie or show always sparks interesting conversations and connections with your roommates. At the very least, you can all snack on some popcorn and get a break from schoolwork. So set up that projector or laptop and hop onto Netflix! Top tip — watch a horror movie to get that adrenaline flowing. Research shows you'll subconsciously associate those increased levels of excitement with the people around you.
9. Spa session
Whip out the cucumbers, face masks and essential oils — nobody says no to a spa session. After a grueling week of exams and homework, what better way for you and your roommates to destress than by treating yourselves to some much-needed pampering? For extra bonding, you can even make customized, homemade face masks the night before using fruit, honey and yogurt and pop it in the fridge.
8. Cook a meal
Are you and your roommates tired of dining hall food? Well then this one's for you! After collectively deciding on a recipe, embark on a fun shopping adventure to collect your ingredients. If you live in a dorm, you can use this as a chance to try out the common kitchen. Don’t be afraid to get messy or creative — the best memories are born out of these moments.
7. Board game, video game, karaoke night
Competition often brings out an unseen side of people. Challenge your roommates in the McIntire School of Commerce to a game of Monopoly, build a new Minecraft world with your engineering or architecture roommates or invite your hallmates to a cappella to see if they can top your rendition of “Party in the USA.” Take it up a notch by offering prizes like snacks or maybe even Flex dollars if you want to get extra competitive.
6. Study together
If there’s one thing you and your roommates all have in common, it’s that you need to study. Get those lo-fi beats going and textbooks out. Studying in a group can sometimes be a lot more motivating than studying alone. You can quiz each other on vocab, explain tough concepts to one another and go through problems together. Make it even more enjoyable by going to the Newcomb Starbucks or a coffee shop on the Corner and grabbing a drink and a snack while you all work.
5. Decorate the common space
The possibilities are endless — tapestries, flags, string lights, LED lights, rugs and more. Decorating your living room, lounge or bedroom can be a fun way to get that interior designer potential out. A great way to do this is to have everyone pitch in some money and go shopping at local stores in Charlottesville after sourcing some inspiration from Pinterest boards. Not only is this a fun experience, but you can also support small businesses! Check out Ten Thousand Villages on the Downtown Mall for colorful, fair trade decorations made by international artisans. Decide on a color or print theme to bring the look together and, of course, to create the perfect background for all your Instagram-worthy pictures.
4. Volunteer
With the huge refugee and homeless population present in Charlottesville, volunteering opportunities are abundant if you and your living mates are willing to look around. Several clubs at the University offer a more structured form of volunteering. For example, Charlottesville Alliance for Refugees connects local refugees with University students who will help teach them English. Habitat for Humanity at U.Va. assists the local community in repairing and improving homes. If you do not have time to commit to an organization, other roles are more free-form and offer flexibility such as picking up trash on Grounds together or spreading awareness about relevant topics. Whatever route you and your roommates decide to take, the experience will be both helpful and rewarding.
3. Make TikTok videos
In today’s day and age, this list had to include making TikToks. The agony of learning a dance for 30 minutes combined with the pain of going through 20 takes to get the perfect video is something even the worst of enemies can enjoy and bond over. That’s not all — TikTok always has fun challenges, yummy recipes and artsy crafts you and your roommates can explore. Although everyone’s addiction to the app may be a slight problem, its versatility means you can find something that everyone is interested in. Who knows, perhaps you and your roommates will end up becoming TikTok famous.
2. Become plant parents
Oftentimes, a child is what glues parents together by giving them a shared interest and common goal. In a similar fashion, by investing in a house plant, you and your roommates can bond over taking care of a different kind of living thing. If plant number one is thriving, feel free to build up your collection and slowly watch as your living space is transformed into a lush garden. Not only will the houseplants provide aesthetic decoration, but according to research, they may help reduce stress levels, sharpen your attention and boost your productivity! For plant newbies, start small with succulents and build your way up.
1. Do chores
Although this may be one of the least enticing activities on this list, it is also one of the most necessary. As they say, “teamwork makes the dream work,” and I’m sure it’s every college student’s dream to have their space be as clean as possible. Putting some music on, doing the dishes, sweeping the floor and throwing things out can be a fun activity if you and your roommates make it so. The tidy views at the end will be worth the effort — trust me.
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