College is the best time of your life. Mostly because you have lots of freedom and your own space. But it might be hard to feel that way the first day you walk in and see your dorm room with those blank off-white walls, twin bedframe and thin mattress. Don’t worry, it’s actually not a bad problem to have. This setup actually means it’s that much easier to turn your room into your very own home away from home.
Follow these five tips to transform that small, plain dorm room into the perfect space for hanging out with friends, studying and getting a good night’s sleep.
Make It Your Own
As small or uncomfortable as your dorm room may be, it will still be the place you rest your head (almost) every night for the next year. Inject your personality! Your dorm room should be a representation of who you are. Turn that bland space into a comfy escape from the pressures of school with posters or pictures from your room back home, a string of lights, a calendar to keep you on schedule and other personal touches. Your room will feel like home in no time.
Stock the Mini-fridge
Nothing will help you enjoy spending time in your room (or make you popular among your friends) like a well-stocked mini-fridge. Make the grocery store your first stop after getting your room setup and load up on solid snack foods. Fill that mini-fridge with water, soda and snacks and anything else your heart (or stomach) desires.
Set Yourself Up for Sweet Dreams
Sleep is your most essential school supply, so it’s important to make sure your room is conducive to getting a good night’s rest. If your dorm room mattress just isn’t up to your standards, you might consider investing in new pillows or a mattress topper/protector. Swing by the nearest mattress store or go online to check out options for turning your nightmares into sweet dreams.
Open Door Policy
Whether you’re new to campus or staying in a particular dorm for the first time, meeting new people is always fun. When in your room, keep the door open. This way, you can meet and greet your new neighbors and make new study buddies. Buy a few bean bags for friends who might pop in to chat, play video games or come for impromptu get-togethers in your room.
Study in Style
There will be plenty of nights where you just want to study in your room. Let’s face it, eating, playing music and talking to yourself in the library is just a no-no. Whether you’re studying on the bed, at the desk or in a common area, deck out your study space. Get a laptop pillow, highlighters, dry erase board, sticky notes and other things that will make your room study central.