What I Wish I Had Known Before I Moved into a College Dorm

I finished my first year of college this past May, and I can truthfully say that it wasn't as hard as I had imagined it being my whole life. Sure, having multiple papers due on the same day, and being tempted by parties most nights was hard, but one of college's hardest challenges is this: knowing what to have in your dorm!

#1: Snacks!

I thought this one would be pretty obvious. Unfortunately, all my friends were always coming to my dorm and taking my snacks!

Some nights, you may find yourself holed up in your dorm, studying for a test the next day and not wanting to take time to go to the Dining Hall. Or, you may just be having a lazy day. We've all been there.

How great would it be if you could just open up a big tub of snacks, and not have to leave your room?! (Trust me, it's amazing.)

Have a bin of your favorite goodies, including some staples like: granola bars, fruit snacks, potato chips, and crackers. But of course, if you're going to be skipping out on the Dining Hall, you'll need some microwave classics such as instant mac n cheese, Ramen noodles (get multiple flavors!), and canned soup. They will be life savers!

#2: Shoe Storage

Shoe storage was definitely not something that crossed my mind when I was shopping for dorm accessories. I really wish it had.

For the first month or so of my first semester, I was either haphazardly throwing my shoes into my closet, or just kicking them underneath my bed. I'd find myself having to take extra time to find a missing shoe, and end up running late to my classes or work.

Thankfully, I got myself a hanging shoe organizer. And, you should too. Don't leave you sweaty gym shoes sitting around!

#3: Buy your own fridge and microwave.

Your college may give you the option of bringing a mini fridge and microwave, or renting one from them. I suggest you bring your own.

Why? Well, my roommate and I purchased our set for under $200 in total. Our university wanted us to rent a set for $300 a semester! No, thank you!

I can't speak for how all universities and colleges are, but I think the safe option is to just buy your own. Plus, once you move out, you get to keep using them! Win-win.

#4: Make it your own!

Yes, I'm aware that we're all college students on a budget here, but I think the most important thing to have in your dorm is personality! What I'm trying to say is, a tapestry on the wall and some fairy lights really go a long way.

Okay, I'll admit I didn't have either of those things in my room. But, they are super cute! And everyone that did have those things totally had a super homey feeling dorm.

I recommend that you bring some printed photos of friends, family, and pets. You can make a collage on your wall or string them along however you would like!

A few posters or artwork really spruces the place up nicely. I had a poster of my favorite singer and a corkboard to hang photos, leave myself notes with reminders, and keep important flyers where I could see them.

It's also really nice to have small pops of color such as a blue reading lamp for your desk, a green bin for your toiletries, or even getting your own colorful curtains!

It's super important that you decorate your dorm to make it feel like more than just a cell you're living in. Remember, it's going to be your home for the next year of your life!