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Dorm Rooms -- Part One

© Wendy Waid

Most colleges have dorm rooms or apartment units for their students to live in while they go to school. The difference between a dorm room and an apartment is usually size and privacy. Dorms are usually crowded and typically shared by two people. But, the best part of a dorm is the companionship if you find a good roommate and the closeness to school.

The Rules:
  Get a list of items you definitely cannot have in your dorm room from the landlord or dorm “mother”. Usually you cannot have candles or high-voltage appliances. Most dorms do not even allow fish or other pets. Also be sure to find out whether you can hang curtains or blinds if there aren’t any provided already. Some dorms only allow white blinds to be seen on the outside of the window. Others will not let you hang things on the walls, such as pictures or shelves.

The Basics:
  Those rules aside, you can now focus on what you would like to have in your dorm room, after all you will be living there all semester. First, measure your entire space. If you plan on sharing a room or a unit, be sure to write down all the boundaries in case of future disputes. If you plan on hanging up curtains or blinds, be sure to measure the windows too.

  Next, set up a budget. Get an idea of what you can spend. Don’t blindly go to the store, otherwise you’ll end up with only half of what you need.

  Now make a list with two columns – what you need and what you want. After you fulfill all your needs, then you can work on your wants. Start with the vital pieces (bed, bedding, kitchen utensils and dinnerware, trash baskets, lamps, iron and ironing board) and work towards less important items (bookshelf, desk, table, rugs). You can always buy one piece at a time.

  Know what you plan to bring. Discuss with your current roommates or family to see what you can and cannot take with you to your new dorm. Check these items off your list. See the eHow article in the References section to learn how to pack all these items for your big move. Don’t forget essentials such as laundry baskets and soap, towels, etc.

  Get to know the area before you move in. Learn how to get to all your classes or to the library from your future home. Find out where the food is at (cafeteria, snack bar, late night coffee shops, vending machines, etc) and snoop around for some good quiet study places.

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