Welcome back to school! This year is the time to create the most stylish room yet. Your room has the opportunity to be the coolest of hang outs. You have the chance to make the space completely yours. Here are some tips to how to create a unique place to live this year.

1. Cover up those walls

If your room is anything like mine then the walls are white, the floors are white and the ceiling is white. Sure it might be bright, but it is quite boring. The best way to turn a dorm room into a homey place to cover up your walls! Tapestries are perfect for this because they bring color to your room while at the same time being large enough to cover a huge space. Many schools offer poster sales as well so make sure you check those out too.

2. Throw Rug

Not everyone understands how a simple rug can bring so much character to a room. Not only is it more comfortable to step on getting out of bed, but it brings color to those drab floors. Even if your room is carpeted, getting a nice vibrant rug really brings a touch of home to your new crib.

3. Lighting

This one is so important. Most dorms are either fluorescently bright or absurdly dim. The lighting is just never good. Investing in a floor lamp and a warm glowing light bulb is a worthwhile decision. Adding some warmth is especially vital for those cold and rainy days. Having your own lamp also comes in handy when you're just too lazy to get up and turn off the light switch.

4. Show your personality

Your dorm room is a blank space to express yourself. If you're really into super heroes then get 10 Avengers posters and just go for it. Find quotes that are important to you and put them all over the walls. Whatever makes you happy is what should be in your room. This is the place you are going to be living for 9 months out of the year so make sure to make it your own.

5. Coordinate colors

If you have a roommate make sure you talk to them about what you want to do! If you can agree on a color scheme then your room will definitely be nice and cohesive. Black goes with anything so when in doubt try that. You can match your bed spreads, decorations and rug and you'll be set.

6. Keep it clean

Don't roll your eyes quite yet, at least hear me out first. I'm the first to admit that I am a messy person. My room at home is usually littered with clothes across the floor and piles of papers on every surface. However, at school I try to keep my small space as tidy as possible. Any clutter is amplified by the small width of the room and so a task as simple as making a bed can make a huge difference.

7. Don't go overboard on the pictures

Of course having reminders of your home friends and family is important. It's a nice way to bring that part of your life with you to college. But, having a collage of pictures from floor to ceiling is a little excessive. It is hard to create a new life at school when you are constantly thinking about the life you left behind. Find a balance of celebrating your new freedom with the comforts of home.

8. Use your storage wisely

Get creative with where you are going to put all of your stuff. Look into getting storage boxes that fit under your bed or in your closet. You can even find some cute storage units that double as seating! You want to be able to move around in your room. Because your dorm room is not only your bedroom, but also your living room, family room and kitchen.

9. Amazon is your friend

Amazon is the greatest invention known to man in my humble opinion. If you haven't already make sure to sign up for your free six-month Amazon Prime trial for free shipping. You can find great deals on awesome decor and functional items as well that can ship right to your school.

10. Don't sacrifice comfort for style

If something is uncomfortable: DON'T BUY IT. As cute as that bed spread might look if it is going to make you itchy every night it just isn't worth it. Your room needs to look great, but also be livable.

11. Be confident in your style

In the end, the only person who needs to love your room is you (okay and your roommate but that's besides the point). Create a space where you feel comfortable, safe and happy. This is your chance to be your most authentic self so go for it!