It is time for kids to return to school. For our undergrad students, moving into a dormitory for the first time or for the students returning to school, each student will need to prepare their space for the year. This means making the space completely yours while your there. A home away from home. Here are some things to consider while your setting up your shared living space at school.
Now, I will admit dorm living has changed immensely for some students since my years as an undergrad. At my college, I had a roommate with whom I shared, a small room – big enough for two twin beds, two side tables to double as desks, and two wall cabinets to fit my entire wardrobe for the year. Our bathrooms were community style – 3 dorm rooms shared a bathroom fit with 4 showers….yeah…ok. Fast forward, dorm rooms now (for some) are apartment style with full size living rooms and separate bedrooms.
Move-In Day
Your first week in your new dorm and for parents reading this and want to treat their student to a new modest or glammed up space, there are a few things to ponder. It doesn’t have to be complicated or stressfull. The main focus should always be to make the student feel comfortable being away from home. College is a big step and it is often the first time a person has been away from home. Here are a few tips to look at when decided what to take to school
- Clothes/Shoes
- Your favorite and most comfortable clothes that can you wear throughout the seasonal changes. Keep in mind, the space of your dorm room. Space may be at a premium
- Storage – another luxury. If you are in an average size dorm room at a university or college, you may have to share a space with a roommate in a smaller sized room. Optional ways to add storage to your space would be to maneuver you bed to sit a little higher to add storage bins and shelves under the bed
- Storage bins or trunks can provide appropriate space and double as seating for a small room
- Storage lockers – self explanatory – are great for storing your most personal items not to be kept in a regular drawer.
- Comfortable Bedding – your bedding is super important. A good nights rest includes a comfortable bed and sturdy sheets to withstand the amount of washes it can overtake during the year.
- Personal Items – Don’t neglect to take a few items with you that bring the room to life and bring out your personality. Add aesthetics of some of your favorite things from home or items that will motivate and keep you focused on the task.
- Your A-game. Again, self explanatory. College is expensive and a time, for some, to truly figure out who you are before you enter the world on your own. As much as it can be a fun experience, it is an experience, where you learn, first hand, the work ethic involved with being in college. Get ahead and stay ahead.
Now COVID has changed some things and each living situation will be different. Please be sure to adhere to the safety practices and requirements of the school.
Check out some of the dorm rooms that I’ve found on Pinterest. It is amazing to see what these students have put together. They have found a way to make their spaces functional and stylish for them.
Now, for the fellas…..
Let me know what you think. Check out our links in the next blog for Dorm Room Essentials.
Ciao, E
