We know just how overwhelming it can as an incoming freshmen- there are so many exciting thoughts running through your mind! But if you need help in the department of dorm room needs, we’ve got you covered! There are tons of long lists online of what you should bring to school freshmen year, and it is definitely a good idea print out a list and bring it with you to your local Target or Walmart. But if you want some extra dorm room tips and tricks, (some of them specific to TCNJ students) then look no further!
1. Bring a full size comforter
I know what you’re thinking, freshman beds are twin XL. However, it’s likely that as you move into other dorms, apartments, or off-campus houses as you get older you will need a full size comforter. Instead, start off your freshman year with a full-size; the extra blanket hangs perfectly over the edge of the bed, concealing whatever you may have underneath.
2. Buy in bulk, transport into mini containers
When purchasing things like Q-tips, mouthwash, and laundry detergent it is always cheaper to buy in bulk at places like Costco. While that is easier, you probably won’t have a ton of space in your freshman dorm room. If you buy travel-sized items, you can transport the liquids or items into the minis as you need. This way, your mouthwash and Q-tips can fit nicely into your medicine cabinet and you don’t have to lug a huge detergent to the laundry room with you.
3. Command hooks
Buying command hooks is a no-brainer. There are so many uses for these little guys. Mostly, they are used to hang mirrors or wall décor. However, you can also put the hooks by your door to hold your keys for easy access or by your towel rack to hang your robe. They are simply a necessity.
4. Scarf rack for jewelry
If you do some shopping at Bed Bath & Beyond or Target, you may come across a scarf hanger by the regular hangers. These are of course useful for scarves, but they are also useful to hang your jewelry on. In college, there isn’t much surface space to have a jewelry holder, so having this hanger in your closet is easy and also convenient – you can hold up a shirt and necklace next to each other and see how they look!
5. Clothespins
Similar to command hooks, clothespins come in handy for a variety of uses. They are good to use as a chip clip, they can hold pictures/letters, and they are a great way of displaying pictures on string lights. If you head on over to the dollar spot at Target, there are a ton of options for SO cheap!
We hope these tips and tricks are helpful for you incoming freshmen! No matter what, don’t worry… it’s all a learning process! Enjoy your first year at college!