1. A Polaroid/Instant Film Camera.

There is nothing like having a physical copy of your photos to decorate your dorm with. It adds flare, personality, and a snapshot of your past. With the right photo, you can redefine your room's entire aesthetic. Every polaroid/instant film picture has a vintage feel that just screams college and 20s. It is perfect for anyone, from the old souls, to the hipsters, it is bound to add volume to any room, and every aesthetic.

2. Your Favorite Book.

If there is one thing that being an English Literature major has taught me, it's that you can tell a lot by someone's favorite book. During my freshman year I brought a plethora of books with me. Some of them were ones that I wanted to read, some I had lying around the house, and some of my favorites. The only ones I even touched (other than my overpriced textbooks) were my favorites. They were there when my friends asked for a book recommendation, and they were there for me when I needed to rewind and relax. Having a copy of your favorite book(s) will give you a sense of security, and a feeling of home.

3. Iron and Ironing Board.

Do not be that kid that wears wrinkled shirts. Simply put, they're unsightly, immature, and a major turn off. And that doesn't even cover how it looks in pictures. When I'm conducting interviews or going on a date, one of the first things that catch my eye with a person's outfit is whether or not it is wrinkled. It tells me whether they care about their appearance, how organized they are, and how mature they are. I'm not saying get top of the line, but make sure you're looking hot and living your best life.

4. A Tapestry or Art.

During my freshman year of college, I brought two onesies with me, and let me tell you, it was one of the best decisions of my life! I have a lumberjack onesie, and for the holidays I have an elf onesie. Let me tell you, having a cute onesie not only give you some amazing photos to post, but I actually made a couple friends from having them.
Note: Only wear the onesie for a specific event or special occasions (i.e. holiday, pajama party, last minute costume). Do not wear as a daily outfit, it will lose its cuteness and bring a weird factor.

7. At Least One Culturally Significant (To You) Item.

When I came to school my freshman year, I was excited to "pop the bubble" I was living in. I went to a religious school, the camp I went to was religious, and the only exposure to diversity outside of my religion and small group of friends was work. Frankly, I didn't want to be known as that Jewish kid. But after moving in, my brother turned to me and handed me a small box. Inside was a Mezuzah, the little rectangle that many Jews have at each doorpost of their homes. It is said in the Jewish religion that putting one up will lead to peace in the household/room, safety, and security. Although I went through a lot in my freshman year, I would often look up at it and think about where I came from, its significance, and my brother. Having something that is not only special to you, but special to your culture as well, will create a feeling of home and security that you didn't know you wanted. Plus, it allows you to teach others of your culture and your upbringing.

8. Something to Fidget With.

This might sound dumb, but hear me out. I'm not talking about the fidget cube, or fidget spinners, but something that you can have in your hands while talking with a friend, reading a book, or even watching tv. Have something to keep your hands off your phone. For me, it was two mega blocks that my aunt gave me when she visited my school for the first time. She handed it to me and told me that it may sound dumb, but they help her when she needs to read a really boring article, or needs something for her hands to do while doing something else. Those mega blocks literally kept me and my best friend entertained for a solid two hours once, just talking and playing with them.

9. At Least One Board Game.

This may be the nostalgia talking, but there's just something about sitting down with a bunch of friends and playing a game, and I'm not talking about a video game. Sit down, collect all of the phones, no internet, no tv, only you, your friends, and a game. My friends opted for Monopoly, but let's be real, none of us have the time, or patience, for a game of Monopoly, so opt for a game like Clue, Sorry, or even Candy Land!

10. A Cute Throw Pillow.

Now that your walls are decorated with art, your desk is filled with the cutest polaroid pictures, it's time to discuss your bed. Yes, you obviously need at least two pillows and a body pillow just to be satisfied while sleeping, a good blanket that will keep you warm when its cold, but isn't too heavy that you are melting during the winter, and a aesthetically pleasing set of sheets (and at least another pair for when you are doing laundry/when you have a guest over/post-sex bed cleansing). But now you need to express yourself on a pillow. Throw pillows are literally the biggest life saver when you are doing work in bed. They add that extra level of comfort when you need to sit up, or is a great cushion for your computer while it's on your lap. Throw pillows are the best way to add anything from a picture of a dog to a beautiful quote to your room.

11. Something That Reminds You of Home.

Being at school can be scary, especially if it is your first time away from home for an extended amount of time. You all of a sudden have a lot more freedom than you may be used to, or even had ever had before. College is a place where you get to find yourself, while learning so many fascinating and interesting things. Bringing something that you associate with him and your upbringing will keep you grounded on who you are, and will help guide you in ways you never thought imaginable. It can be hard to balance finding yourself, and remaining true to who you are. Having something from home will remind you of your roots. It'll remind you why you're doing this when you're so stressed about that assignment that you're crying at 2:00a at your desk.