Beginning college is such an exciting and pivotal point in your academic journey! You are going to a higher level of education, meeting new friends, and for some, moving away from home and into a new environment. As a college freshman you will likely be staying in a dorm on campus. This can be an adjustment that takes time to get used to. Due to living in a small space, having a roommate, and having to use a community bathroom, you may have to get creative in how to make the most of the space that you have. 

Here are a few dorm hacks that will help change your experience while away and help you make the most of your new living situation!

1. The Art of Communal Bathrooms
In most cases, dorms will not have a shower in the room, so you will have to use the community shower down the hall. It would be in your best interest to get a shower caddy to hold your items, such as body gel, shower caps, shampoo, and conditioner so that you are not lugging your personal shower items around in your hands every time that you go to take a shower. In addition, because you are using a community shower, shower shoes will be a must. You can get flip-flops or easy slide-on shoes that you are comfortable wearing.

2. Bed Risers
Finding ways to save space in your dorm will be essential! Since the room space is small, you’re going to want to bring containers to store items that may not need day-to-day, like winter/summer clothes or shoes. Bed risers are helpful to create additional storage under the bed by lifting the bed a few extra inches off of the ground.

3. Hanging Shoe Organizers – More than a shoe organizer
Don’t let your dorm doors go to waste! Use a hanging shoe organizer to store shoes, jewelry, or any other odds and ends on your door. Hanging shoe organizers are not only inexpensive and easily accessible but will also keep your items well-protected and organized.
Bonus tip: Label index cards and tape them to each section to easily locate your items.

4. Shelves Save Space
Use geometric decorative shelves and have them double as storage. Not only are they a nice homey touch to a cold dorm room, but you can use them as storage space. Books, small plants, and flameless votive candles can all fit nicely on the shelves, while adding some personality to your space.

5. Roomie Regulations
Living with a roommate can be a fun and exciting experience. Since you will most likely be living with someone you’ve never lived with before, establishing some boundaries and a routine isn’t a bad idea. Are you okay with sharing your groceries? What are you both like in terms of cleaning? How do you feel about noisiness or being up past a certain time? Sitting down and having a conversation about both of your habits can save a lot of frustration or confusion in the long run and help to ensure things between you and your new roomie go smoothly.

Ultimately, dorm living can be a fun and exciting experience. It will teach you how to co-exist with others and you’ll meet a variety of new people. It will also teach you how to be resourceful and how to make the most of an unfamiliar situation. Remember to have fun, be open to new things, and enjoy the ride!

Paulina Dorsett,
Marketing/Communications Manager