Let’s get down to the nitty gritty of dorm living and stop being completely blindsided on move-in day. The first thing you should know about dorm living is that it is not as glamorous as Pinterest makes it out to be, but that does not mean it cannot be great! For those of us that are curious about the reality of dorm living, this post is for you! Since a picture is worth a thousand words, here are some photos of my own dorm room to help illustrate the points you’ll want to know.
1. It’s OK for your dorm to not be matchy-matchy with your roommate!
I know that may be hard to believe, but it’s true. My side of the room is a conglomerate of purple and eclectic items, while my roommate’s side is pristine with a minimalistic vibe. And you know what? It works! Just because you’re sharing a room does not mean you have to sacrifice your own tastes and preferences.
2. Keep. Your. Stuff. Organized.
One of the worst things is to realize you have an assignment due at midnight, but you can’t find the materials you need on your desk, in your book bag, or under your bed. Stay organized. It’s vital. Period.
3. Your dorm door is a first impression.
Make sure it gives off the right impression. The worse thing is to have your dorm come off as uninviting and cold. My roommate and I decided to decorate our door and leave this design year-round. Other girls on my hall hung message boards and other things to decorate.
4. A nice entryway makes a dorm feel more like a home.
The first thing you do when you get home is to drop your keys and other items at the door, right? Why not do the same thing at your dorm? It helps turn the living space into one that is cozy and comfortable while still maintaining an organized atmosphere.
5. Buy a calendar and a planner.
You may only use one, or you may use both. I always say: it is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. I thought I would only use my planner, but having a large wall calendar was extremely helpful for seeing all of my assignments at once instead of flipping through pages.
6. Take your planner to class to jot down important information during lectures.
7. Take a break.
Studying all day with no break will not help you out in the long run. Find some time for a little R&R you’ll be happy you did.
8. You are going to be hungry.
Whether or not you eat a large meal in the Cafeteria for dinner, midnight snacks will call your name. You’ll also want something to munch on while studying. Collaborate with your roommate and decide on whether or not you will want a kitchen area in your dorm room.
9. Bring the bare minimum in regards to your wardrobe.
As a girl who absolutely loves clothes with more than I need, take this advice: only bring what you plan to wear. Do not bring the articles of clothing that you think “Oh I can wear this if …” because chances are -- if there are any ifs, ands or buts when choosing your outfits -- you won’t wear them. And if you don’t wear what you bring, you’ll take up space that you don’t have.
I learned this the hard way fall semester, so spring semester I brought only the necessities. Also, do not worry about wearing the same outfit more than once. You will not be the only one who does!
10. Words of encouragement do help.
I hope you are able to take this practical, real world, dorm living advice and use it to make your dorm room even better!
