The Iglu Guide | Blog
The most common flatmate personalities you will meet in shared student accommodation
Living in shared student accommodation has many benefits to offer, no matter what type of student accommodation you choose. You’ll meet all kinds of people from all over the world, and all with different personalities to match. It’s the perfect social bubble of like-minded individuals where some will entertain, some will comfort, and some may even annoy… but that’s half the fun! Whilst you’re obviously behaving like the perfect student housemate, here’s some common personality traits you might find when you take a look around your lounge room.
The social one
This personality can go one of two ways. The better way is when they channel all their social energies into your little household and take complete charge of organising nights out and group events that help bond everyone together. Their bubbliness and enthusiasm is great to have around. The slightly less better way is when they’re constantly out partying, come home in the early hours, leave the kitchen in a late-night-snack kind of mess and are rarely seen when the sun’s up. If you’re having blast at university and haven’t seen a lot of your flatmates since you moved in…. watch out because this personality trait could well be you.
The tidy one
This personality type is definitely a good one to have around, and more common than you might imagine. They’re neat, clean and obsessively tidy. They take pride in keeping everything in its place, and with any luck that extends beyond their bedroom and into shared living areas. Of course, everyone should be playing their part according to the undisputed Golden Rules of shared accommodation – but of course, life doesn’t always go to plan like that. Arguable, some housemates always end up doing a little more than their fair share. Stay on side, and reap the benefits.
The messy one
The polar opposite to the tidy personality, this housemate simply does not notice mess. They are probably the nicest person in the world, and a whole heap of fun to know, but it might be hard to remember those benefits when you’re cleaning up their dinner plates and saucepans in the kitchen – again. Sometimes, this messy trait has the potential to morph into distinctly slobbish behaviour – the very worst kind for all other housemates. But if it stays put in the untidy category, it’s definitely forgivable.
The sporty one
If you don’t like to be reminded how unfit and un-sporty you are, stay well clear of this personality. Dedicated to a very regular fitness routine, this type of student housemate can be a little polarising amongst the student community. After all, students have a legitimate license to avoid physical movement at all costs. Unfortunately, this type of flatmate also likes to share their fitness goals and specific dietary requirements with other housemates, or indeed anyone lurking nearby. However, there is also the possibility that it could inspire others to pull on the lycra and get out for a run. It really could go either way…
The noisy one
Not to be confused with the social one, the noisy one simply cannot operate in quiet mode. Whether that’s banging cupboard doors in the kitchen, singing along in the shower or loudly regaling tales from the night before, the self-awareness is sadly lacking. TMI is just not part of their vernacular. That’s not to say they are not likeable characters, but it might be wise to invest in some noise-reducing headphones if you want to get your head stuck into some study time.
The absent one
Some students may even question if this personality type really does live in your shared accommodation? There is a vacant bedroom, the bed sometimes looks slept in, and there’s the occasional whisper of conversation from the doorway. But whether you could recognise this flatmate in the street is another conversation entirely. The absent one has a whole other life, in another place, with other people. You may never meet them, but that’s OK.
The cook
This flatmate is gold. They love cooking for themselves and others, and are always experimenting with different recipes and bringing the house together to enjoy the latest dish. If they are international students, that’s an a added bonus as it’s the perfect way to sample local dishes and learn more about other cultures. Potential downside is definitely having to do the clearing up afterwards. But if you have to lend a small hand after being stuffed with delicious food, it’s really the least you can do!
The nerdy one
It’s all about the study and the solitude for this type of housemate. Academic achievement is definitely a top priority, and they spend a significant amount of time in their room studying, or at the local library. Some students might find this slightly restricting, especially if there is pressure to keep the noise down for much of the time. Other students find it inspiring as it encourages them to get back to their own books and take studying more seriously.
The homely one
This is the student personality that just loves to be at home all the time. Socialising outside the front door simply does not appeal. They’re either lounging around on the couch in PJs, binge watching the latest Netflix series with a bucket of popcorn in tow or starting a pet project on the bedroom floor. They are perfect company for when you just want to stay in and exert minimal energy. Cosy, comfy and snuggly all the way.
The organiser
Taking responsibility and letting everyone know about it, this personality is definitely good to have on board in your shared accommodation. Whether it’s about organising a house roster, motivating everyone into a group night out or shouting out orders for clean-up Sunday, someone needs to take charge and they don’t need asking twice. Or even once as it turns out. Feel thankful that this personality trait falls so naturally to some people, and that you will never have to worry about it.
The bestie
The bestie personality tends to crop up when you least expect it. Students typically go into shared accommodation and fully expect to meet a whole bunch of interesting people – but they don’t really expect to find a soul mate. If you meet someone who ticks all your friendship boxes, that’s when it becomes super exciting! There’s simply nothing better than finding your best mate and being lucky enough to live together as students. Top tip: Do not let this one go.
