For students who have never had to share a room before, college can be a rude awakening.

Dissension between college roommates was given national attention recently when a University of Arizona freshman allegedly stabbed her roommate to death over a supposed theft, The Associated Press said.

The suspect, 18-year-old Galareka Harrison, was charged with first-degree murder and is awaiting trial.

Though the majority of disagreements between new roommates tend not to result in death, tension can arise, said Micky Sharma, director of the Counseling and Student Development Center.

“Any roommates can have conflicts,” Sharma said, adding that roommates should expect conflict to occur. “Having disagreements with any roommate is a natural part of living together.”

Any number of factors can lead to tension between roommates, from perceived annoying habits to religion to ethnicity. Communication is the key to solving problems before they escalate, said Ombudsman Tim Griffin.

“First and foremost, communicate with the person respectfully and honestly,” Griffin said. “However, when people refuse to communicate honestly and respectfully, things can escalate. If that occurs, people need to get outside assistance rather than further escalate the conflict.”

Meeting in the middle on disagreements is a good policy to have, Sharma said.

“Maintain open communication. When having difficulty with a roommate, listen to him or her; do not just wait for your chance to speak,” Sharma said. “It’s not possible for every decision to go your way. Be aware of what you are willing to give in on versus what is most important to you.”

Students seeking mediation with roommate conflicts can set up a confidential appointment at the Counseling and Student Development Center, located in the Campus Life Building, Room 200.