There are a number of things you will need upon arriving to college that will come in handy and make you feel more at home.
Of course, you are going to need essentials such as bedding, towels, a laptop, microwave, and fridge. However, there are a few extra items that will help your dorm room feel like your own.I advise you invest in a rug or carpet. While I was out shopping for my college needs I was told I would want a rug to add a home-like feel to my new small space. I suggest getting carpet since the floors are not comfortable to sit on.
A fan is nice to have as well. My dorm room during my freshman year was on the third floor of the building and it got quite warm. If you notice your room becomes very warm on a regular basis, you may want to get a fan.
While you will be frequenting the dining halls, snacks such as soup, chips, cookies and fruit are nice to have in storage if you end up having a long night study session and don’t want to make a trip to the dining hall.
Also, a TV along with a DVD player is nice to have. Although you may not be able (and probably won’t want to) spend a lot of time watching TV, it is nice to relax and watch a movie every once in awhile.
Although my room was small, not all of the rooms in the residence halls are the same size. If you end up residing in a room that allows space for a chair or a futon, you should invest in one of those as well. A chair or futon will make your room feel home-like and is a nice addition.
If you end up arriving to college with a lot of shoes, I suggest you get a shoe holder for shoe storage. You are already coming with clothing and other items, so there will probably not be a lot of room in your closet. A shoe holder for storage will be very convenient.
Flowers or a plant of some sort also, I believe, will add a bit of color and life to your room. I’ve found that making your dorm room feel more like home will make you feel more comfortable.
Pictures and posters are nice to put up in your room. Investing in picture frames, cork boards or a picture holder for your desk will also add some comfort.
Just adding some of these items to your first-year-of-college list will make the transition a lot easier. I know it did for me, and it probably will for you.