College is approaching for the class of 2024 and seniors are overwhelmed with needs versus wants for their dorm rooms next year. As they start browsing Amazon storefronts and dorm checklists, the excitement flows and stress of bringing the right accessories runs rampant.
Senior Delaney Chapman claims that the number one thing on her list is an ice maker. Among all the other things, Delaney says she will use the ice machine daily because of her love for ice. But for her organizational needs, she plans on using space wisely by using stackable hangers, bringing storage containers under her bed, and shoe hangers. She explains that in a dorm it is crucial that you make the space feel homey and a place that you can relax, so clutter should be avoided. “I plan to bring lots of blankets and pillows to make my bed super comfy,” Chapman said.
Planning her dorm, senior Jackie Montoya has been focused on decorational needs. Montoya admits she will bring a shower caddy, shower shoes, and a mattress topper, along with the other simple necessities when living dorm life. But Montoya is excited to make the dorm space customized to her. “I plan to decorate my dorm with posters from Etsy, my skylight, and just overall like cute things for my room,” Montoya said.
I plan to decorate my dorm with posters from Etsy, my skylight, and just overall like cute things for my room.”
— Jackie Montoya
While the girls are planning out their wants for their dorms, the boys are more focused on the simple needs of a college freshman. Senior Miles Betz claims that he will definitely be bringing a microwave so he can reheat or make food in his dorm. He notes that it is important to check beforehand if your college supplies you with microwaves in your dorm or common spaces. “I will definitely need to bring a TV too if I’m bringing a Xbox because I will want to stream on a big screen,” Betz said.
Senior George Kasbom will definitely be bringing a minifridge, specifically one that has a freezer. Although he hasn’t figured out the complete logistics of his dorm room, he knows that he will want to buy meals and have them prepped so he can sleep in as late as possible in the mornings. Kasbom has also said that he will most definitely be bringing an extension cord so he can acquire enough charging ports. “It’s super important to be prepared for living in a different space so it’s good to check the dimensions on your school’s housing website,” Kasbom said.
Overall, it’s a good idea to check on what your dorm rooms supply for incoming freshmen and do your research on what you should bring to have a comfortable dorm life.