How to Make Your Dorm Feel Like Home
Moving into a college dorm for the first time is exciting — but it can also feel a little overwhelming. You’re in a new place, maybe far from home, and staring at four blank walls and a twin XL bed. It’s easy to settle in without putting effort into the decor that is around you, but making your dorm feel like home is key to feeling comfortable in a new place.
Here are a few tips that helped me feel more settled at Tufts right away:
1. Start with the Walls
One of the fastest ways to cozy up your room is by decorating the walls. Every fall, Tufts hosts a giant Poster Sale right on campus. It’s a goldmine for affordable posters, art prints, and funny signs — and it usually happens within the first week or two of classes.
You can also easily print photos for cheap through websites like Shutterfly or Walgreens Photo. I printed a bunch of photos of my friends, family, and even my favorite places at Home. Seeing familiar faces around my room helped me feel connected to home, even on tough days. (Don’t forget Command strips or putty to hang everything damage-free!)
2. Bring the Little Things That Matter
It’s tempting to only pack the essentials, but trust me: bringing a few sentimental items makes a huge difference. A mug from your kitchen at home, a favorite blanket, or a small piece of décor from your childhood room can create instant comfort. I brought a childhood stuffed animal and a small succulent.
3. Dorm Comfort is All About the Details
I cannot stress this enough: do not forget slippers.
Other quick ways to make your dorm more inviting:
- A small rug
- Fairy lights, sunset lamps or LEDs
- A desk lamp
- A room spray or diffuser (just check dorm rules!)
4. My Last Pro Tip:
Think about investing a little more into certain items. I have throw pillows I have used for all four years and will be taking with me, and also some prints I have now framed for my post-grad apartment. On the occasional item that you think will last the years, it's worth it :)