Dorm Must-Haves for College
By Kristen, age 19, Massachusetts
Sweet Designs Staff Intern
There comes a time when most teenagers must leave the nest, by either going to college or finding their own place. This article can help you not to forget four essentials for college living, or simply living on your own. The dorm is a scary place, and as long as you have these things, living away from home can be a little more bearable. I can speak from personal experience when I say you will need these things at one point or another.
Proper lighting
You should bring your own lamps, either the kind that stand on their own or the kind that you put on a desk. College dorms may provide overhead lighting, but it is not nearly enough to read textbooks with small writing or for reviewing a term paper. I bring at least two lamps for my desk because there is always a chance of one of them breaking, and sometimes an extra light can help you stay awake for those late night study sessions. Don't forget extra light bulbs!Storage
The bottom line here is that you need a place to put your stuff. If you want to keep your things in order and know where everything is, you should invest in desk storage, bins, shoe holders, and boxes. Also, consider some items advertised on television, such as those bags you can store a lot of things in, or coat hangers that can hang more than one garment. Dorm rooms can be cramped, so the more space you can save, the more spacious your room can be.Memories
If you're going to be away from home, you'll need some reminders of home to put in your room. Perhaps a few photos or a knick-knack that reminds you of friends and family. Everyone at home will be missing you. As a side, you should contact them every once in a while to see how they're doing.First Aid Kit
This is a no-brainer. One must always be prepared for the worst case scenarios. Try to find the biggest first aid kit you can, as the smaller ones might not have all the supplies you will need in an emergency.I hope this list has helped you, as you move out of the nest. If you have already moved to your new apartment, home, or dorm and have forgotten these things, I hope this acts as a reminder to get them the next time you're home. Have a great semester!
