Bonding with your first roommate: priceless

It can be scary to think about sharing a space about the size of a closet with a complete stranger for the next nine months. But, by using some of these creative ideas, you and that complete stranger could wind up being best friends, or, at least, civil acquaintances.

The easiest way to get to know your new roomie is by grabbing a bite to eat together. Head over to the GMP where you'll both be sure to find something you like. This way you'll learn each other's tastes and preferences while the small chat will be a starting point in getting to know each other.

If you're feeling more adventurous, try cooking a meal together. Picking out a recipe, shopping for the ingredients, throwing everything together and then enjoying your culinary masterpiece (or mishap), can be an entertaining way to learn about your roommate. Don't worry if neither of you can cook, this process just might teach you how differently you both handle certain situations.

Another easy way to get to know each other is to attend the Student Organization Fair on Sept. 3 on Greene Street in front of the Russell House. With nearly 300 student organizations, you're both bound to find something you're interested in. Even if you don't join the same organization, you'll get a better idea of each other's interests.

Whether you're both new to the area or are lifelong Columbia residents, exploring the city together will give you tons of opportunities to bond. A trip to the zoo is a relatively inexpensive way to have fun while getting to know each other. Not a fan of the hot weekend weather? Go check out the paintings and sculptures at the Columbia Museum of Art. It's free on Saturdays.

For more fun at a slightly higher cost, head over to Frankie's Fun Park on 140 Parkridge Drive. With Go-karts, miniature golf, bumper boats, laser tag, batting cages and more, the pressure's off while you share lots of laughs with your new living mate!

Another alternative is to learn new things together. If you and your roommate don't already have a class at school together, why not take a class together outside of school? The F Stop, a new camera shop in Five Points, offers classes and workshops along with a public darkroom, lighting studio and professional equipment rental.

The Mad Platter, a paint-your-own-pottery studio on Millwood Avenue with over 200 styles of pottery from which to choose, is another inexpensive activity to try out.

If you're looking for something less artsy, head over to the Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center. Go swimming in one of the pools, scale the 52-foot climbing wall or just run on the treadmills together. Scientists have proven that exercise partners are more likely to share important thoughts and feelings with each other while experiencing that exercise "high," often making for closer, stronger friendships.

Lastly, if you'd rather opt for a night in watching TV, share your favorite shows and movies with your new roommate. There's nothing like having someone to share the latest episode of your favorite show.