So, you’ve just moved into your new dorm where you’ll be living for the school year. I know it can be quite a change, but don’t worry – it’ll pass. Like all things, this is only temporary, so make the most of it! Meet new people, get to know your roommates (if you have any), and have fun! You’ve probably packed the essentials, but here’s 15 tips you didn’t know you needed.
- Maximize Your Storage Space: Dorms can be quite small, so try to get the most out of the space you have. Use under-bed storage bins, hanging organizers, and stackable containers to make the most of your room.
- Dual-Purpose Furniture: Try and find furniture that serves multiple functions, like a futon that doubles as a sofa and a bed, or a desk with built-in shelves.
- Personalize Your Space: Decorate your dorm room with posters, photos, and items that reflect your personality, making it feel like a home away from home.
- Stick-On Hooks and Strips: 3M’s sticky hooks and tape are great for hanging things on the wall without damaging the paint. Whether it’s lightweight shelves, posters, or tapestries, you want to pack some with you.
- Bring Your Own Comforter Set: Dorm mattresses are often less comfortable, so a good comforter set, your own pillowcases, and a mattress topper can make a huge difference in your sleep quality.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Trust me when I say these are an essential for studying in a noisy environment or when you need to focus amidst distractions.
- Power Strips and Extension Cords: There may not be many outlets in your room, so taking a power strip is a good idea to be able to charge multiple things at once.
- Cleaning Supplies: This one is definitely one to forget, but very important. You want to ALWAYS keep a stash of cleaning supplies at bay for any spills, stains, or just tidying up. Definitely a broom and pan, some bathroom cleaner, stain remover, and some Clorox wipes.
- Laundry Essentials: Similar to the tip above, be sure to take a laundry basket, detergent, and fabric softener to help keep your clothes clean and fresh.
- Healthy Snacks: It’s easy to bring a bunch of Doritos and Molto, but be sure to have some healthy snacks on hand for late-night study sessions.
- Personal Fan or Heater: Some dorms may not be equipped with A/C, so it’s important to bring a fan or heater to be able to control the temperature in your room.
- Basic Tool Kit: Another one that’s easy to forget, a toolkit is more important than you may realize. Assembling furniture, making minor repairs, or anything else you may need to do.
- Stationary Supplies Organizer: Keep your pens, pencils, notebooks, and other study essentials organized in one of those desk organizers.
- Create Boundaries: If you have roommates, be sure to establish boundaries and responsibilities for chores, quiet hours, and shared spaces. For example, no going into the other’s room after 10 p.m. or doing the dishes at least twice a week.
- Stay Organized with a Whiteboard or Planner: Having a whiteboard up or writing in a planner is a great way to visualize what your week looks like. It helps you keep track of important meetings and dates, and avoids any forgetfulness or misunderstandings.
These tips will help you adjust to living in a dorm and even enhance it. The most important thing to keep in mind is to have fun and make the most out of the college life. Don’t be afraid to meet new people, go to events and live new experiences, you only live the undergraduate life once!