Living in a Dorm
Dorm living starts with a roommate. Reserving a dorm room early ensures that you will get either your first or second preference and will move in on time, usually free of any hassles like last minute placement or roommate cancellations. Reserving a dorm room early means that you will have time to meet with or speak to your assigned roommate. Most colleges and universities notify roommates via mail or email about dorms and roommate assignments a month or so before the semester begins.
It is important to contact your roommate as soon as possible to generate a list of who is bringing what. For instance, depending on which person has the bigger television, it may not always be kosher for both roomies to bring a television. One equipped with a DVD player is formidable but not a necessity, especially since most video game consoles can play them as well. Plus, space is limited so the less you bring the better.
Pack smart
Packing for college means packing smart. The least amount of boxes, clothes and necessities you bring, the less you and your entourage have to carry on moving day. Sure, most dormitories come equipped with elevators, but remember that everyone else will also be wanting and waiting on the elevators.
Here’s a compact list of what to bring:
Miniature refrigerator
Iron and ironing board
Linens – towels, comforters, blankets, sheets
Toiletries – lots and lots of them
Laundry detergent
Cleaning supplies (paper towels, disinfectant wipes, broom/dustpan, duster, air freshener, etc.)
Headphones and/or earplugs
Small crock pot
Lamp(s)
Rug
Sandals or shower shoes
Bath robe
Clothes/shoes
Check with the dormitory to verify if microwaves, candles, curtains and window decals are allowed.
The belongings that you bring, like a computer, should be guarded. It is recommended that each roommate provide their own computer due to the academic workload, web-based hobbies and entertainment preferences that will make it difficult for roommates to share. IPods and MP3 players are should also be guarded based on the hours and hours worth of music, television shows and movies held on them. With that in mind, they are much too valuable to risk by being lost, stolen or misplaced. Speaking of valuables, stray from packing family heirlooms and expensive jewelry.
All that’s left to do now is to make your dorm living experience something special. Collaborate with your roommate to create a signature look that distinguishes you from others on your floor or in your building.