How to Form Your Dorm

By Sarah Vandermolen Section Editor

You probably think you already bought everything you absolutely need for your dorm room. You’ve got sheets, towels, twinkle lights, etc. What more could there be?

However, if I had to guess, I’d say there’s a chance you didn’t buy at least one of these dorm room essentials!

A Broom or Vacuum Cleaner

I know what you’re thinking: “Why would I need either of these things in a dorm room?” However, after spending one week in your dorm, you’ll be running out to get one. Whether your room has tile flooring or carpet, dust and dirt are going to build up—and fast. It's no fun walking around your room and stepping on all the junk you bring in every day.

Cleaning Supplies

This might be hard to believe, but just like your bedroom at home, dorms get dirty too! There’s no harm in having some disinfectant wipes, glass cleaner and paper towels on hand. Keep your mirror nice and sparkly to avoid leaving your room wearing a fashion disaster. Wipe down your surfaces regularly so you don’t unintentionally invite some creepy crawlers into your room. Cleaning will also eliminate most germs you bring into your home away from home!

A Mini First-Aid Kit

Sadly, your parents aren’t going to be around anymore to patch up your boo-boos. A responsible adult should always have some first-aid supplies with them. Now, don’t go out and buy some massive kit that’s meant to be used in a hospital. I’ve found that the bare minimum essentials include: band-aids, pain reliever, Tums and some alcohol wipes. If you want to, you can buy all these items separately and put them in a little bag of your choosing! Scissors

Okay, this may seem a little silly, but hear me out! You would not believe how often you’ll need a good pair of scissors. Can’t open a package? A teacher has you doing arts and crafts? Stupid tag won’t come off on that new shirt you’re just dying to wear? Scissors, scissors, scissors! This is an everyday essential that many people don’t think about, but you’ll be frantically reaching to find a pair when you need them.

A Bunch of Hangers

Again, this may seem a little obvious, but of course you’re going to need something to hang your clothes with. An easy reminder to pack your hangers is to add one to a box for every item you take out of your closet. However, make sure to bring extra! There’s no doubt you’re going to go shopping at some point while you’re at school. Plus, St. Francis is always handing out free shirts. Pretty soon, you’re going to have way too many shirts and nowhere to put them.

Knickknacks and Decorations

This is probably the most important thing to remember when you’re packing for college. You’re going to want things that remind you of home, or things that make you feel at home! Whether it’s taking some posters off your bedroom wall and putting them up in your dorm, or buying some cute things from the store, don’t forget to make your dorm your own. Find a way to bring yourself comfort and peace in your new space.

I hope you found this guide useful and have added some things to your list. If you’re a freshman or transfer student, welcome to the University of St. Francis. For all my returning classmates, welcome home!