Do you ever think about your rooms here? I’m sure when you moved in, you saw that the bare-bones version of our rooms is pretty boring, and that’s for a reason: it’s up to you to make it your own. But how? There are a few rules regarding decorations and things you can keep in your room, but I have some fun ideas that won’t drive your RAs up the wall.
First, posters are a great way to bring color and life into your dorm room. You can get any kind of poster you choose, but I love things that have rainbows and floral designs. Maybe you’re into a TV show or movie. If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you can always get a poster for your house. Or you can make your room a throwback theme and get some posters of the shows you liked as a kid.
Second, though you can’t have candles, you can have essential oil diffusers, which are arguably cooler. They run with water and essential oils and some can run for hours on end without running low. It’s also great for sore throats.
Third, lighting is everything. Try some fairy lights or a few lamps with different colors. You could get a salt lamp to add warmth to the room or string lights along your ceiling. Also, you can hang decorations for holidays. Themed rooms are the best, and they boost your mood, too. Choosing a color scheme is a good idea, and it makes your room feel more put-together. Try combinations of colors, like primary colors or 80s colors to make your room feel more your own. Having trinkets might seem cluttered but personal touches like stuffed animals, pictures of loved ones, or handmade presents from family are a nice reminder that you’re loved. Seeing these things also boosts your mood so during finals, you can remind yourself of why you’re here.
Lastly, a room sign is essential. You want people to know a room is yours, and you want them to know some ground rules (if any). Things you could include are your class schedule, your hobbies, what you allow in the room, your Snap or phone number, and your year. These things are just personal tidbits that make the room reflect you and also let your neighbors know a little about you. You never know, maybe they’ll knock on your door to say hello and you’ll make a new friend.
Carrie King
Contributing Writer