Story and image by Lindley Johnson, Shakopee; Edited by Lale Akkin, Mounds View
It is no secret that Youth in Government keeps its delegates on their toes. Moving from program areas to meals in the skyway, and then to afternoon activities in an exciting whirl can tire people. Going back to their hotel room works as a break from the chaos. A delegate’s time in their room can make or break their YIG experience, so it’s important to know ways to create a space for everyone in the room. Here are five easy tips delegates shared to create that Home-Sweet-Hilton experience.
Tip Number One: Choose Roommates Wisely
If given the chance to choose roommates, delegates should pick people they know they’ll be comfortable living around. Despite the short amount of time delegates spend in their rooms, they have to share a bathroom, eat breakfast, and share a sleeping space with these people. Sometimes it’s not the greatest to choose friends as tensions may rise even between the closest people. It’s best to find people who they will feel comfortable around and won’t argue with.
Tip Number Two: Let’s Delegate, Delegates!
Once roommates have been chosen, communication is key. Discussion on what to bring will guarantee no duplicates and minimize the chaos of organization. Snacks, breakfast food, and toiletry items can be divided among roommates to make packing easier while still providing everything needed for the weekend.
Tip Number Three: Hit the Sleep Button
Sleeping is the most important thing any delegate does in their hotel room. but sharing a room can sometimes cause issues. Roommates should be considerate of each other’s needs whether that be light from the bathroom, white noise, or silence for a certain time. Compromise is never perfect, but talking through needs and finding solutions can make the room a better space for everyone. Alarms also shouldn’t wake others up unless needed and should be discussed between roommates.
Tip Number Four: Hygiene Routine
One bathroom between four delegates can cause difficulty finding time to clean-up. Many delegates have a preferred time to shower or a set morning routine. In order to keep this schedule, roommates should share what they need and decide when everyone will shower.
Tip Number Five: Tidy Up
A messy room often results in lost items and roommate squabbles, so having a system of organization by ownership can save the room a load of trouble. Keeping personal belongings and clothing inside of a suitcase can make packing up smoother as well.
Take these tips with you to your hotel room and remember that communication is always the key to a good rooming situation, just as it is in a court case or on the house and senate floor.