I started my freshman year about a week and a half ago. There are just some things you need to know before you move into the dorms or starting your college career.
1. Slippers.
I cannot say enough good things about having slippers. The floor in my dorm is cement and even though we have a rug my toes still end up freezing. My fuzzy slippers are a lifesaver when I'm up late finishing my homework.
2. Organization
Being organized is a lifesaver, especially in a new environment where everything gets thrown at you all at once. Keeping your desk organized and your side of the room (if you're sharing one) is a lifesaver. I get so much anxiety and stress over things that are messy, dirty, and just not tidy.
3. Know your roommate
Believe me. You will want this. There's a lot of stories out there about how this can go bad. If this does happen to you, communication and a roommate agreement are needed. You can usually get a roommate agreement from your RA and talk about any issues or problems that come up with them as well.
4. Routines
Usually, each day is different in college, you have classes on different days and this semester is especially different because of COVID-19. Whether it's a blended class, meaning both in-person and online via zoom, fully online or fully in person. Each day brings new adventures and challenges. Keeping in a routine each day is super important. It helps me to stay in the correct mindset of completing all the tasks that I need to get done for that day.
5. Mattress topper
No joke, this is a lifesaver. My once rock hard dorm bed has been turned into a super comfy bed. I have the mattress topper that's two inches of memory form with two inches of down comforter on top of it. It's insanely comfortable and in the mornings really hard to get out of (not gonna lie).
6. Mini Vacuum
I know there's blog posts and yada yada yada about how a vacuum is so inconvenient. I know how dirty things get and it's something I seriously should've brought. The rug in my room has gotten dirty so fast with hair and other things (idk either).
These are some of the things that I've discovered that are important for a successful start in college. Some I was prepared for, others I wish I had known before moving into my dorm room.
