My name is Hailey Mencia, I am a First-Gen Sophomore at Tarleton State University. Coming into college I didn’t really know what to expect because no one in my family went to college. The summer before I started, I watched so many videos on “college dorm essentials” so I could be well prepared. These are my favorite ways to make your dorm feel like home!
- Lights, lights, and more lights!!
Fairy lights, string lights, lamps, curtain lights, and LED lights are all great ways to make your room feel more like home. Lights create a warm and cozy environment which is great for resting when coming back from work or class. However, remember to make sure they are battery operated lights!
- Photo or Polaroid Wall
What better way to feel at home with pictures of your loved ones? College can be tough and sometimes you get homesick, having pictures to glance at makes college a little easier. You can even add on to the wall with current pictures of your college experiences. It also just looks really nice. Before I came to college, I had a going away party where I took polaroid pictures with all my guests! Once I moved in, I made a photo wall with all the pictures I took that, and every time I was homesick, I would glance over at them.
- Shelving/Storage underneath bed.
Shelving and storage are some of the best ways to fill empty space. You will have lots of empty space under your bed, and very limited storage space. The shelves will make your room look fuller and as a bonus you’ll have extra storage.
- Desk Area
Have a place to put all your office supplies like pencils, pens, markers, post it notes, etc. This will help you feel like you have everything you need. You could also decorate your desk area with motivational quotes for when its crunch time for finals or an assignment is due.
- Throw Blanket/ Throw Pillows
Throw pillows and throw blankets are always super cozy and homey. They fill up bed space and make the room look fuller. Typically, when the room looks fuller you tend to feel a sense of warmth and that is always good for the soul.
- Plants
Invest in a succulent or two, they always add a pop of color. They are very easy to take care of and extremely low maintenance. It adds a bit of life to the room. Plants are also stress relievers, increase creativity, and boosts mood. My first semester in college I had bought two succulents and I didn’t have to worry too much about watering them since you only had to do it twice a month.
- Coffee/ Tea Station
What better way to start your day off than with a cup of coffee or tea? The smell of coffee in the morning always reminds me of my mom because every morning she has coffee ready for me. When I came to college, I brewed my own coffee, and it was as if I had a piece of home with me every day.
- Color Coordinate
Color coordinating in your room is always very appealing to the eye. It also makes you feel organized and in college that will make you feel very accomplished. College can be stressful and having things within your control can make your day a whole lot better.
- Wall Décor
Wall décor is one of my personal favorites! Try to get some inspirational quotes up on your walls or things that remind you of home. Tapestries, posters, flags and things like that are all good ways to make your room remind you of home.
- Coordinate With Your Roommate
Having a friend in college is very important, try to see what things you guys have in common and make a designated area for those things. Spending time with your roommate doing things you enjoy is one of the best ways to relieve the feeling of being homesick.
Having a place to make your own in college can have a huge impact on your experience. A cozy bed and a decorated room can go a long way. It might seem like a lot of work at first but coming back from class or work to a place that reminds you of home can make all the difference. If you are admitted or want more information on housing, guidelines, or residential life check out the link below!