Closet

home
CultureEducation

Adjusting to your college dorm can take some time. If you’re still working on settling in, or if your current situation just isn’t working out, here are five ways to adjust to your college dorm and make it feel like home.

1. The Bed

No matter where you go to school, there’s nothing comfortable about the jail cell-like bed of your dorm. Investing in a good mattress pad and bedding set that is warm and makes you feel at home is essential to making your bed feel close to the one in your room at home.

2. The Closet

Going from optimal clothing space to a three-foot closet is a big deal. In order to get through the size change, invest in space-saving hangers so you can still bring a large part of your wardrobe. Narrowing down the necessities that you need to bring is also extremely important when it comes to making the most of your new home. Bring clothes that make sense for where you are going. For example, if your school is in a location with harsher winters, load up your winter jackets, boots, and scarves.

3. The Bathroom

Not being able to walk around barefoot is a big step. Getting used to the idea of a communal bathroom can be frightening, but it isn’t as scary as it sounds! A shower caddy is your new best friend in college, as well as a pair of cheap flip flops to accompany you everywhere you go.

4. The Noise

The noise level is going to increase dramatically when moving from your room at home to a college dorm. Having 30 or so neighbors on the same floor definitely contributes to that. It’s important to get into the habit of taking advantage of the library when it comes to studying and doing homework because it will be your savior of silence and concentration.

5. The Roommate

Living with another person in the same room may not be something you’re used to. Having a friend can help you from being lonely and homesick, but it can also be difficult to get used to another person’s living habits. Setting rules and boundaries from the beginning is a key factor to make dorm living easier for both you and your roommate. Who knows, your living companion may just be your future maid of honor!

Overall, living on campus is a major part of the college experience and one that should be taken advantage of if given the opportunity. Even with its ups and downs, some of your best college memories will be made and shared in your college dorm, and you’ll be sure to call your college dorm home!

dorm clothes
EducationSkills

Debt. And debt. And then some more debt. We all know it’s waiting for us at the end of our four years in college, but that doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice a new college wardrobe, right? Though it may be hard to part with your over-flowing closet of endless outfit options, here’s what you really need for your college wardrobe to stay up-to-date without breaking the bank:

1. Leggings/Yoga Pants/Sweatpants

Every college student knows that life revolves around leggings, yoga pants, sweatpants, and the life of comfort that comes with them! There’s a simple way to break down these basics that you’ll likely be wearing 75% of the week:

  • Leggings: When you want to be comfortable but still want to look nice. When paired with the right shirt these can totally be dressed up!
  • Yoga Pants: More casual and perfect for when you’re on the run from class to class but still want to look somewhat put together.
  • Sweatpants: Typically worn on those roll-out-of-bed mornings, sweatpants are the ultimate comfort luxury for when all you want to do is curl up in your bed and sleep the day away.

2. Shorts

As much as leggings, yoga pants, and sweatpants are the staple of every college wardrobe, the long pants just aren’t going to cut it during the warm weather that comes around during the beginning and end of the year. Shorts, particularly jean shorts since they match virtually anything, are the go-to wardrobe fix for this problem.

3. Jeans

There will be days, most likely around once a month, wear you decide to break out the jeans and look a little nicer than usual. Jeans will also come in handy when you want to go out but don’t feel like getting completely decked-out in a skirt.

4. Plain Shirts

Another absolute staple, plain shirts - both long-sleeved and short-sleeved - are going to allow you to get the most out of your wardrobe and money. These can be paired with any variety of bottoms and layered with the right cardigan, scarf, or jewelry, and they can be worn on any occasion.

5. Crop Tops and Skirts

Whether or not the party scene is for you, there’s a good chance that you’ll experience at least one during your four years. Crop tops and skirts are items that are typically worn, so it can’t hurt to have one or two of these stolen away in your closet or dresser!

6. Scarves

In order to dress up those plain t-shirts and long-sleeved shirts and to keep warm, scarves are a necessity. They’ll allow you to get the most out of your basics by making an already worn outfit appear brand-new while also keeping you cozy as the weather cools down.

7. Cardigan/Jackets

Like scarves, these add-ons can be a life saver when it comes to getting the most out of your college wardrobe. They’ll also help big time with transitioning into fall and winter weather. You can get the most out of those summer tops without freezing and still look stylish.

8. Flip flops

Two words: flip flops. The ultimate necessity that every college student needs. There are three very important uses where flip flops come into play.

  • In the Shower: Whether you’re in a suite or in a communal bathroom, sharing a bathroom with any amount of people is tricky business. Do yourself a favor and get yourself a pair of cheap flip flops to solely wear in for your bathroom adventures.
  • At Parties/Social Gatherings: There will be drinks and there will be spilling of drinks. Do yourself a favor and wear a pair of (preferably black) flip flops so you don’t have to go through the heartbreak of having your favorite (or worse—brand new) shoes ruined.
  • Everyday Convenience: As mentioned earlier, you’ll definitely have your roll-out-of-bed mornings and those mornings require no-hassle shoes. Flip flops are the perfect solution!

9. Flat/Fall boots

As the weather gets colder, you’re no longer going to be able to wear your beloved flip flops going from class to class. The smart choice that every college student should make is to have at least one pair of flat boots for everyday use. No wedges, and definitely no heels, are needed when it comes to trudging your way across campus!

10. Undergarments

This may seem extremely obvious, but I felt like this was a necessity to put on the list either way. Pro tip: stock up. Being in college calls for a lot of hours to do the three S’s: study, socialize, and sleep. That leaves little time to do laundry and even when you do have the time, you’re really not going to want to do it. Also, don’t forget to have a surplus of socks (we all know we’re bound to have multiple lone socks in the drawer after a month or so)!

Overall, these 10 categories should save you a lot of hassle when it comes to deciding what you need for your college wardrobe! Happy shopping!