10 Dorm Room Essentials for Your Freshman Year

Getting ready to move away from home for the first time can be both a fun and nerve wracking experience. With those emotions can also come some feelings of uncertainty of what to expect and how to best prepare for a great freshman year. But never fear; our Assistant Director for Admission, Margaret McAndrew ‘17 is here to help!

Dorming is a unique and exciting part of college life, and as you prepare to pack for your big move don’t forget these ten essentials.

1. Comfortable bedding
Creating a comfortable bed that you love is essential when moving into your dorm space. Pick bedding that makes your room feel like your home away from home. Cozy pillows, blankets, and sheets will really elevate your space. Remember your bed will be a Twin XL size.

2. Storage containers
Storage is key to keeping your things organized when living in a dorm. Storage containers are a great thing to keep under your bed to organize extra clothes, snacks, shoes, etc. They keep your room neat and you are able to find things much quicker.

3. Shower Caddy/Shower Shoes
A shower caddy is a great way to keep your personal items organized and makes trips to the shower much easier with everything in one place.

4. Masks
One of the many great things happening at Mount Saint Vincent this fall is in person classes! Make sure to pack some masks to wear around campus and during class. Bring a few so you can swap out masks after wearing them for the day. For more information check our out or Fall 2020 Reopening Plan.

5. Cleaning Supplies
Keep your dorm feeling fresh and clean by bringing a small supply of cleaning products. Things such as Clorox wipes, Lysol spray, a broom/Swiffer are easy ways to keep your room clean. Don’t forget laundry detergent! Using laundry detergent pods are a great way to easily do your laundry in between classes or after a study session with your friends.

6. Microwave and Mini Fridge
A microwave and mini fridge are great for making meals on the go, storing leftovers, and snacks. Make sure to coordinate with your roommate since only one of each is allowed in the room.

7. Decorations
Make your dorm truly feel like a home away from home with some great personal touches. Bringing posters, photos of family and friends, and fun decor which makes the dorm feel like your own unique space.

8. Removable hooks
With all those decorations you will need a way to hang them! Removable hooks are the easiest way to hang any type of decor you bring. The removable hooks are a damage free way to decorate your room (especially since it is against the rules to put holes in your walls).

9. School Supplies
Notebooks, planners, pens, folders, highlighter, etc. will set you up for success for your first college class. Dedicate a folder and notebook to each class as an easy way to keep your different lecture notes in one accessible place.

10. Laptop
A personal laptop is great for taking notes in class as well as completing your first college assignments. There is wifi all across campus so staying connected is easy!

Happy packing! We cannot wait to see you on campus in a few short weeks. For more information on what to bring your first year, click here.