Written by Amanda, University of Pennsylvania

College applications and senior year are exciting, but let’s be honest, they can also be very overwhelming. One way to lighten the load and channel your excitement for the future is by thinking about your dorm room! Even if you don’t know which college you’ll attend yet, it’s totally okay to start imagining how you want your space to look and feel. Planning your dorm can be a creative outlet that reminds you of all the good things waiting on the other side of applications! Here’s how to start: 

Dream Big (But Be Realistic) 

Your dorm room will be your first chance to create a home away from home! Start by picturing what makes you feel cozy and inspired. Are you drawn to clean, minimalist designs? Do you love vibrant, colorful patterns? Or maybe you’re into cozy boho vibes? Platforms like Pinterest and Instagram are great for finding inspiration! 

That said, keep in mind that dorm rooms are usually small and shared, so your plans should balance style with practicality. Think of multi-functional pieces and layouts that save space. The goal is to create a space you’ll love without overdoing it or running out of room! 

Focus on the Essentials 

While dreaming about fairy lights and fluffy throw pillows can be fun, start by prioritizing the basics. Here’s a checklist to get you started: 

● Bedding: Twin XL sheets, a comforter, and a mattress topper for comfort.

● Storage: Under-bed bins, hanging organizers, and stackable drawers to maximize space. 

● Lighting: A desk lamp or clip-on light for late-night study sessions. 

● Study Supplies: Planners, notebooks, pen holders, and sticky notes to keep you organized. 

Knowing what you’ll actually need will help you stay focused when it’s time to shop and prevent you from buying unnecessary items! 

Add Personal Touches 

This is where the fun begins! Your dorm room is your space to showcase your personality and make it feel like home. Consider adding: 

● Wall Decor: Posters, photo collages, a tapestry, or even peel-and-stick wallpaper.

● Hobby Spaces: A small shelf for books, art supplies, or your favorite games.

● Comfort Items: A cozy blanket, a favorite stuffed animal, or some small mementos from home. 

These little details can make a big difference in creating a space that feels uniquely yours!

Stay Flexible

It’s important to remember that you won’t know your dorm’s exact layout or your roommate’s preferences until closer to move-in day. To avoid unnecessary purchases, wait on big-ticket items like rugs or furniture until you have more information. Check your college’s housing website for details on what’s provided and what’s allowed in dorms! 

Flexibility will also help if your roommate has a different style or already owns some of the items you’re considering. Sharing the planning process with them can be a great way to start building a good relationship! 

Use This Time to De-Stress 

Thinking about your dorm isn’t just about planning; it’s also a way to take a break from the heavy lifting of essays, tests, and college decisions. Spend some time browsing decor ideas, making a wish list, or jotting down what you’d like to bring. It’s a reminder that college isn’t just about academics; it’s also about creating a space where you can relax, recharge, and grow! 

Get Input from Friends and Family 

You don’t have to figure this all out on your own. Talk to friends who are already in college to get advice on what they found useful or what turned out to be a waste of space. Your family might also enjoy helping you plan and could offer suggestions or contribute something special for your dorm! 

Collaborating with others can make the process feel more exciting and less overwhelming!

Stay Budget-Conscious 

It’s easy to get carried away when shopping for your dorm, but setting a budget can help you avoid overspending! Look for sales, check out thrift stores, and consider DIY projects to personalize your space without breaking the bank. Many colleges also host dorm supply swaps or offer free items during move-in week, so take advantage of those opportunities! 

Embrace the Process 

Starting to think about your dorm now is more than just practical; it’s a chance to dream about the exciting changes ahead! Your dorm will be more than a place to sleep and study; it’s where you’ll begin your journey as a college student, make new memories, and grow into this next chapter of your life. 

So go ahead: dream big, plan thoughtfully, and look forward to creating a space that feels like home. You got this!

Discover the difference of The Ivy Institute—where if you can dream it, we can build it! At The Ivy Institute, we don’t just help students get accepted into top Ivy League and Ivy Plus colleges — we have the resources to develop students into the candidates top colleges and admissions officers seek, and transform your CommonApp college application and essays. Join us for a 30-minute information session on applying for college with an Ivy League expert and see how we can make your college dreams a reality. Schedule your consultation today!