Dorm Living: 5 Things You Can’t Live Without
Trying to get ready, you have gone over checklist after checklist. Even though you have the basics covered (clothes, school supplies, laptop, etc), it’s possible a few essentials have been overlooked. If this is your first time away from home, and you’re just not sure, here are some items you should not forget.
1. Dry Erase Board
The easiest way to communicate with your roomies and neighbors is the dry erase board. Let’s face it, between classes and study time at the library, it’s possible to never see your roommate. Keep each other informed by putting notes on a dry erase board. Make sure the board is located in a place where it will be seen by all roomies. Put a board on the fridge or on the front door. When it’s on the door, visitors can leave a message too!
2. Mini Fridge
From holding milk for your cereal or leftovers from home, the mini-fridge is a must-have for college dorms!
3. Microwave
As a student, you can’t afford to eat out all the time. Get some microwavable meals and snacks to dine in. Popcorn, oodles of noodles, and instant hot chocolate are great for dorm living.
4. Alarm Clock
Wake up with your alarm! Now that your parents aren’t around to make sure you’re up for school, you have to do it yourself. Getting to class on time is a priority! Use your alarm for other things too, like a reminder of the student council meeting or the art exhibit for extra credit.
5. Shower Caddy
You never realize how much stuff you need to take a shower until you have to carry it back and forth every day. Make it easy on yourself and pick up a shower caddy. Now everything is in one place and made portable. Most caddies will fit shampoo, conditioner, body wash, scrubby, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a razor. While you’re at it, wearing your shower shoes or flip flops to the shower is one less thing to carry!
It is recommended that you talk to your future roommate(s) before move-in day concerning the shared items like the fridge and microwave. It’s possible they might have something you don’t or vice versa. If an essential needs to be purchased, perhaps the cost may be split to save both of you some cash. Also, check with your college or university before buying or bringing anything. Most schools have certain criteria for specific items or do not allow them at all.