Getting accepted into college is an incredible experience. It opens pathways to new adventures and future possibilities and gives you the freedom to express yourself while exploring life as it comes. Amidst the thrill of starting this new chapter in your life, there’s also a sadness of knowing life will not be the same anymore back home.
When a student finally moves into their dorm, a lot changes. This aspect makes adapting to the more significant changes in student life challenging. Thankfully, you can avoid feeling lonely or homesick while in your dorm. You can add low-maintenance decorations that remind you of home in a comforting way. At the same time, check the dorm’s regulations and rules to avoid making changes that are not appreciated or allowed.
If you are wondering where to get started, here’s a complete list of changes you can make in your dorm room to make it feel like home:
Add a Touch of Green
Adding plants is the easiest way to make your dorm room feel more comfortable. You don’t necessarily have to invest in real flowers; instead, you can explore a range of fake flowers in Australia to find ones that fit your budget. Fake plants or flowers do not require regular care like watering or pruning.
They are also cost-effective in the long term. However, to avoid making your decor look flimsy, make sure to shop from businesses known for selling high-quality fake flowers and plants made from premium materials.
Hang Photos and Art
There’s nothing more personal than adding photos of your family and friends. So when you feel lonely or exhausted with the hustle of university life, you can look back and see how many people love you and are proud of how you are progressing in life.
You can use fairy lights with photo clips or a hook-and-loop tape. These do not require drilling holes, resulting in no damage to the wall. Consider adding admired art pieces to create a pop of colour and make your side of the room more aesthetically pleasing.
Bring Your Mattress and Bedding
The bedding and mattress provided in the dorms are not luxurious and can be uncomfortable. Consider investing in a high-quality bedding arrangement to avoid sleepless nights and body aches. If your budget allows, invest in a premium mattress with ample back support.
For pillows, understand your sleeping position so you have just the right amount to support your body during sleep. Invest in quality bedding made from premium cotton or linen to ensure all-season comfort. They are easy on the skin, and maintaining them is not a challenge.
Add Soft Furnishings
Cushions, curtains, and rugs are another effortless way to add character to your dorm room. If there are limited provisions for adding curtains to your room, you can opt for no-drill curtain hangers. They have strong adhesives that can bear the weight of regular curtain rods and require minimal installation effort.
Ensure the cushions are contrasting colours with the bedding to add more vibrancy. A rug can bring together any room while being the focal point. To avoid awkward placements, consider opting for a rug large enough to cover the floor and in a colour that blends with the room in harmony.
Light Up Your Space
You will spend ample time in your dorm room with your friends, trying to navigate assignments and projects. These study sessions can often stretch late into the night. It is imperative to have suitable lighting that alleviates the stress associated with studying late at night to prevent eye strain. Consider switching the existing lights to cool white lights in the 5000K to 6500K range. They can boost your productivity and focus for more extended periods.
The Bottom Line
Your dorm room will be the first apartment you will ever have as an adult. It will also be where you will spend a crucial part of your life, from finishing assignments on time, celebrating your wins in challenging subjects, or even having endless conversations with your friends. As a result, it’s essential to personalise the space by adding elements that keep you connected to your roots while allowing you to seize every opportunity that comes your way.
