Living in campus housing is the first step to becoming more independent. Unfortunately, dorm rooms are typically not the biggest, and on top of that, you have to share the already small space with someone else. With that being said, it is important to make the most of the space that is yours.

Decorating your dorm room is a big deal so here is how you can prepare!

1. Finding your roommate

Whether you met her on Facebook, through mutual friends, or went random...finding out who your roommate is is super exciting.

2. Room layout

Should you build a storage unit to put next to your bed to hold all of your clothes? Should you loft your bed and put your desk underneath it? Whatever you do, your end goal should be to maximize all possible storage opportunities.

3. Printing out a list of everything you need

From decorations to supplies, there is a lot of shopping that needs to be done. The list seems to never end.

4. Countless trips to the store

You are officially Bed Bath & Beyond's number one customer because you quickly realize you need just about everything they have in stock.

5. Choosing the right bedding

Your bedding basically sets the tone of the room so it has to be perfect. Except there are so many options to choose from and you hate making decisions.

6. Printing out pictures of you and your besties

Having pictures of your bffs hanging in your dorm room might be the most important part! It is a little piece of home to remind you of all the good times you had and all of the new adventures to come.

6. Packing

Trying to fit all of your clothes into the least number of suitcases is a challenge in and of itself.

7. Moving in

After all of the hard work you have put into preparing, the day finally comes to move in. Have fun fitting all of your stuff in the car! A U-Haul might be your best bet.

8. Unpacking

You might have been able to fit all of your clothes in your suitcases, but it is a whole other story trying to find a place for them in your room.

9. Decorating!!!

Here comes the fun part! As soon as your parents say their last goodbyes, you have the rest of the day to make your room your own. Hang up your pictures and most valued treasures and get ready to invite the floor over for some bonding time.

10. Let your room change as you do

Don't feel obligated to keep your room the way it was when you first decorated. As time progresses, you being to understand your new daily routine better. Maybe the setup you arranged in the beginning of the year just doesn't work for you anymore...change it up! Move the furniture around or rotate the pictures you have hanging up and even incorporate some of your newer photos to create a new look!

Last but not least, if you aren't feeling comfortable in your room...do something about it! As cheesy as it sounds, your dorm room is your sanctuary, a place to go to do whatever makes you happy. If anything comes in the way of that, don't hesitate to make some well needed changes!

Make every year in college one to remember with memories you will never forget!