Heading off to college is an exciting time filled with possibilities. However, transitioning to dorm living from living with family or others can be overwhelming. We believe that one of the keys to a successful dorm experience is making sure you have all the essentials to make your space feel like home. Whether you’re a freshman taking on your first year or a returning student looking to upgrade your setup, here are the top 10 necessities for a college dorm.

1. Bedding: Check with the housing director or RA for the bed sizes in your dorm. Then choose comfortable sheets, a cozy comforter, and a mattress topper for added cushioning.
2. Storage Solutions: With limited space in dorm rooms, maximizing storage is essential. Consider investing in under-bed storage bins, over-the-door organizers, and stackable crates to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
3. Lamps/Lighting (non-halogen): Additional lighting is a must-have for late-night study sessions. Look for a lamp with adjustable brightness levels and a flexible neck to provide optimal lighting for reading and writing. Choose a lamp that matches your style and will make your space feel like home.
4. Mini Fridge: Having a mini fridge in your dorm room can save you time and money. Stock up on your favorite snacks and beverages. At RCU, one mini-fridge per room is allowed! A communal microwave is available in your building.
5. Study Essentials: Stock up on essentials for class and studying such as pens, pencils, notebooks, and a planner. A desk organizer or caddy can help you corral loose items and maintain a clutter-free workspace.
6. Personalized Decor: Add personalized décor touches that show your personality! Lay down a throw rug, hang photos, string lights and posters. Don’t forget to bring items from home that remind you of friends, family, and cherished memories.
7. Laundry Hamper: Stay on top of your laundry routine with a durable laundry hamper. Look for a hamper with handles for easy transport to the laundry room and consider purchasing mesh bags to help separate loads of laundry.
8. Power Strip and Extension Cord: With multiple electronic devices to charge, a power strip and extension cord are indispensable. Choose a surge-protected power strip with enough outlets to accommodate your laptop, phone, tablet, and other gadgets. An extension cord can also come in handy for reaching outlets in awkward locations.
9. Shower Caddy and Flip-Flops: Make the experience of communal bathrooms more manageable by investing in a waterproof shower caddy to transport your toiletries. Pack a pair of flip-flops to protect your feet from shared shower floors and minimize the risk of slipping. Don’t forget your bath supplies and towels!
10. First Aid Kit: Lastly, it’s essential to have a basic first aid kit on hand for minor emergencies. Stock your kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any prescription medications you may need.

Having the right essentials can make all the difference in creating a comfortable and functional living space as you start your experience as a residential student or return to it. From bedding and storage solutions to desk essentials and personal decor, these top 10 necessities will help you settle into dorm life with ease. Questions? Contact residencelife@rochesteru.edu

Other Approved and Recommended Items for Dorm Living at RCU:

1. Hangers
2. Laundry detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets
3. Personal computer and accessories
4. Coffee maker
5. Portable hair dryer
6. Desk fan
7. Video game systems
8. Trash can and trash can liners
9. Cleaning supplies
10. Alarm clock
11. TV
    
12. Curling iron