<p>So to cut to the chase, I happen to be a bit paranoid and mistrusting of my stuff; books, clothes; homework, any of that biz you keep in your rooms. At the college I'm going to as a freshman it's extremely likely I'll be getting a roommate. Any advice from other paranoid people?</p>
<p><strong>This advice form a non-paranoid person.</strong></p>
<p>If you’re mistrusting of your stuff, first distinguish what items you will be bringing with as valuable. This is generally your computer, phone, jewelry, designer shoes/handbag/accessories, and electronics. These are the items that you want to not flash off or keep out in the open. </p>
<p>To protect your items, having a lockbox or stowing your items in a non-esaily accessible is best. </p>
<p>Another thing you can look at is insurance for your dorm room that covers loss, theft, emergencies, and the like. Their are some good threads here on CC that address dorm insurance.</p>
<p>Make sure you set some ground rules at the beginning of the semester. Some dorms cover this with a formal roommate agreement. But sit down and talk to your roommate, let them know you’re kinda protective of your stuff and would rather not share (or tell them to ask before touching your things), etc. Make sure you mention the door as well, that you’d prefer it was always locked if you’re both out.</p>
<p>In terms of just general “someone else is living near my stuff”… we’ll go with the dining hall advice here. Why would they want to mess with it? They have their own clothes. Your homework… well, even you probably don’t want to look at that. Generally speaking, your stuff isn’t interesting enough for someone to go looking through, and even then, a vast majority of roommates are respectful enough to not mess with other people’s things. Remember, they’re normal people… and just like you, they’re nervous about living with someone new.</p>