As the fall semester approaches, incoming freshmen and returning students alike are preparing to turn their on-campus living into a place that feels more like home. Whether with their own personal style or organizational hacks, students are finding ways to make their dorms both functional and comfortable.

Many students living in the traditional dorms or West Campus apartments focus on multi-purpose furniture and smart storage to keep their places cleaner and tidier. Storage bins placed under the bed and collapsible crates are common organizational techniques used to maximize limited space, which is a key aspect necessary for comfort. 

“Finding containers to fit my stuff has helped, along with trying to keep only what I really want with me,” said Mallory Jones, a freshman accounting major.

Storage bins under the bed, rolling carts and collapsible crates are just a few of the budget-friendly tools that students use to maximize their space. Labeling bins and coordinating colors also help students maintain a sense of order without sacrificing style.

The Huffpost article “How to Keep Your Dorm Room Organized” stated: “Perhaps a more general rule for keeping your room organized is to just have a designated space for everything. As elementary and obvious as that may seem, it’s important to really sit down and decide where you are going to keep certain things.” 

Decorating for the holidays is a way students add seasonal joy to their on-campus living experience. Putting out mini pumpkins in October or a small Christmas tree in December, or a floral wreath on the door in the spring is a great way to make the holidays on campus special and make campus feel more homey. 

Students on a tight budget often shop at thrift stores, dollar stores, and create DIY projects to decorate their dorms and apartments. Other stores that are popular are TJ Maxx, Ross, Amazon and even TikTok shops, which are relatively affordable.

“I shop anywhere that has what I am looking for, but mostly Amazon and Target,” Jones said.

Pinterest and TikTok have become popular sources for inspiration for those seeking affordable but cute decorations for dorm rooms or apartments. Many students see organizational hacks and must-haves for dorm rooms that are perfect for creating a home away from home.

Even small details like removable wallpaper, artwork or peel and stick tiles for the desk or dressers help make dorms feel more unique and custom to students’ personal styles without violating housing policies.

“I own fairy lights and a lot of random light-up signs that in the evening keep my apartment cozy and warm,” said Jailey Ferrer, a sophomore mass communication major. “I also have pictures of my boyfriend and family hanging around so that I feel like they are still there with me.”

For students sharing a space, communication is just as important as personal creativity. It’s recommended to set clear expectations between roommates early and discuss plans together to avoid any surprises. 

While moving into a dorm can often feel overwhelming, most students agree that small efforts go a long way in making the transition easier for them. Personal touches, organization and communication with roommates are key to having a homey dorm on campus or at the West Campus apartments.

“I have cat-themed decorations because I have four cats at home, so having fictional cats by my side keeps me cozy and reminds me of them. My apartment is also Hello Kitty themed, meaning my soap dispenser, my shower curtain and bath mat, practically everything and that just brings so much joy to my life,” Ferrer said.

From tiny decor to pieces that work as both storage and decoration, students prove that even a small shared living space can be transformed into a home away from home.