Studying abroad and living in an Erasmus apartment can be an exciting adventure.

It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in a new culture, make lifelong friends, and gain valuable life skills.

However, sharing a living space with fellow students from different backgrounds also comes with challenges.

To ensure a harmonious and enjoyable co-living experience, here are seven uncompromisable rules that every student in an Erasmus apartment should follow:

Respect Each Other's Privacy

Privacy is fundamental, and respecting your roommates' personal space is essential.

Avoid entering their rooms without permission, and be mindful of noise levels, especially during study or sleep hours.

Respecting boundaries creates a more comfortable and trusting atmosphere within your apartment.

Communicate Openly and Honestly

Effective communication is the key to resolving conflicts and maintaining a peaceful co-living environment.

Encourage open and honest conversations with your roommates. If issues arise, address them promptly and respectfully.

Discussing concerns early on is often better to prevent them from escalating.

Share Responsibilities Fairly

Living together means sharing responsibilities.

Create a fair and transparent system for chores such as cleaning, grocery shopping, and bill payments.

When everyone contributes equally, it reduces tensions and ensures a well-maintained living space.

Be Mindful of Noise Levels

Noise can be a common source of tension in shared accommodations.

Be aware of the noise you generate, whether playing music, talking on the phone, or watching TV.

Established quiet hours are 14-17:30 and 22:00-8:00, so use headphones when necessary, especially during late or early hours.

Respect Cultural Differences

Erasmus apartments often house students from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Embrace these differences and be respectful of each other's customs and traditions.

Learning about each other's cultures can be an enriching experience and an opportunity for personal growth.

Keep Common Areas Clean and Tidy

Maintaining cleanliness in common areas is vital for a harmonious co-living experience.

Clean up after yourself in the kitchen, bathroom, and living room.

Regularly remove trash and recycling, and avoid leaving personal items in shared spaces.

Follow Apartment Rules and Regulations

Every Erasmus apartment has specific rules and regulations the housing provider or landlord sets.

These rules are designed to ensure everyone's safety and well-being.

Please familiarize yourself with these guidelines by watching this short VIDEO and adhering to them at all times.

Conclusion

Living in an Erasmus apartment can be one of the most memorable aspects of your study abroad experience.

By following these seven uncompromisable co-living rules, you can create a positive and supportive living environment where you and your fellow students can thrive academically and personally.

Mutual respect, open communication, and a willingness to adapt are the cornerstones of successful co-living.