Make Your Dorm Room Feel Like Home

When it comes time to move into that freshman dorm, make sure your expectations are low. Being a freshman means that you are at the bottom of the barrel, and that you will get the worst dorms on campus. You have to work your way up the totem pole to the nice housing, and that is just a fact of life. Your mission when you first get to school is to make your room as close to home as you can, and sometimes that isn’t easy. First off, having a roommate is hard enough as it is, and then add the fact that you are both on top of each other all the time will lead to conflict. Taking that out of the picture, you are now going to be living in your own tiny space that is entirely up to you. You get to decorate it, and some things can make it feel a little bit more like home. Each year, thousands of students move to Columbus to attend college. Here's how to have a space all your own when you are feeling like a small fish in a big pond.

First off, when you’re preparing your stuff for your home away from home, whether you are investing in all new stuff, or taking your stuff from home, you should think of some key themes for your room. Stick to things that make you happy, like bright colors, animals, or maybe your favorite movie. Surrounding yourself in small things that make you happy can only help when things start to get rough. If you have any type of security item from home, like a blanket, or a stuffed animal, don’t be afraid to take it with you. You’d be surprised how many people are still attached to things like that when they get to college.

Never underestimate the comfort of your bed. Sleep is more important than you would think when you stop doing it. You need a place where it’s easy for you to fall asleep quickly and sleep through the night. Some nights you might not sleep at all, and having somewhere to go when you have time to relax, and being able to climb in between the covers and cuddle up with your pillows and pass out is something that you will greatly appreciate. If you can, invest in an egg crate foam topper, and some comfy sheets. They will be a lifesaver once you feel how uncomfortable that bed is.

One thing that really makes a place homey is pictures. Having personal effects that are unique to you, and bring back good memories will make being away from home much easier. Even if you are used to being away from your family, living away from them is tough. Of course you’ll get used to it, and you’ll end up having the time of your life, but the transition can be tough. Surrounding yourself with positive energy and people can make the world of a difference.