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Style > Decor

Back to School Dorm Essentials

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Colgate chapter.

After what felt like the fastest summer ever, it’s time to head back to school.  This means new classes, getting back into the homework grind, and having your friends live just a few feet from you.  Most importantly, it means decorating the room of your dreams. Personally, I usually leave dorm-related tasks to the very last minute… so if you’re like me and feel as though you’re cramming and can’t remember exactly what you might need to create your best room, look no further! Below are some dorm room must-haves to help you create an organized and pleasant living space that all of your friends will be jealous of.

A Fun Light:

Most dorm rooms tend to be very dark.  There is usually one fishbowl light in charge of lighting up the entire room… and the truth is: that just does not suffice.  Adding a nice light fixture to your room makes getting ready easier, helps when doing homework, and makes your room a happier place.  Adding a light to my room 100% enhances my mood upon walking through the door. 

Poppin Box Bench:

I wanted space for somewhere to sit… but I had so many toiletries and snacks that needed a place to go too!  THE POPPIN BOX BENCH COULD DO BOTH. This bench doubles as a disguised storage area for literally whatever will fit in it.  You could put shoes, food, clothes, makeup, shampoo, literally ANYTHING in this bench and no one would ever know. These can fit into small spaces or they can be the star of the room.  I highly recommend (…clearly).

A Fridge Cart:

To my last point, extra storage is always something I am looking for in my dorm (I always over pack).  Having a fridge cart has helped my room look more organized and is perfect for utensils, plates, napkins, and any other things I may need to make my dorm-dining experience better.  This cart can support the weight of your refrigerator, and some even come with wheels. So if you ever have that mid-semester urge to just redesign your entire room… the fridge cart makes it easy to do so!

Shoe Cubby:

This sleek shoe cubby keeps your shoes nice and organized.  Being able to see your inventory makes it especially easy to get ready in the morning.  This cubby in particular can hold 16 pairs of shoes, yet takes up very little space and can fit right under your bed.  This cubby has made my life much easier!

Dust Buster:

I feel as though I will be just a couple days into the semester and my room is already covered with popcorn crumbs and dirt from my shoes.  Having this dust buster makes getting those crumbs up quick and easy… and will keep the flies OUT! However, BEWARE: Your neighbors who forgot to bring a dust buster themselves will always be asking to borrow yours!

 

These are just a few of the things that can help make your room amazing. While command strips, posters, and cute bedding are equally important, these are just a few that some people might miss!  Adding these pieces to your room will help really bring it together and make it a truly nice place to live.

 

Courtney Day

Colgate '22

Courtney Day is the Campus Correspondent for the Colgate University chapter of Her Campus. She is an English major, minoring in both Political Science and Writing & Rhetoric, and is a member of the Women's Varsity Lacrosse team.