College is where everyone goes to obtain the career they've always wanted to have. It's also where you learn skills that not only benefit this career but your entire life as a whole. Maybe you want to get out there and actually live independently. If that's the case, then moving into a college dorm may be the best option for you. However, living in a college dorm isn't as simple as you may think. It's important for you to understand what's involved in the process. In this article, we'll be covering everything you need to know about moving into a college dorm.
Get a List of Everything You Need
Many colleges that offer the house usually give their students a list of everything they need to bring when they come. This list can include the following:
Comfortable bedding
Sets of bedsheets
Storage units, like bins
Your own microwave
A mini fridge
Your own decorations
The list you're given depends on the institution and its requirements. Some dorms do offer extra amenities, but you'll have to review and study their housing plans first. Once you do, you can start budgeting for things you need to purchase. Since you're doing this for a college dorm, you can use the money you get from your student loans to finance everything. Student loans can be used for more than just tuition costs. It can be used for your textbooks, school supplies, equipment, and room and board costs.
Get to Know Your Roommate
In many instances, those who live in college dorms are paired with a roommate. This roommate is who you'll be bunking with for as long as your college career lasts. To minimize conflict and prevent problems from arising, contact your roommate and ask what they're bringing. You don't want to accidentally bring something you don't need. Once you both settle in, take the time to get to know your roommate. You could end up making one of the best friends you can have. A copasetic relationship with the person you live with is one of the tips for maintaining health as a student, a stressful living situation can take a significant toll so mitigating that possibility should be a priority.
Don't Stress About Not Bringing Everything
Let's be honest in that you're not going to be able to bring everything you want. If your vehicle is unable to fit anything else, it's perfectly fine. You can easily have what you want to be shipped from your home that you couldn't bring for the initial move. Or, you can ask a family member to bring it to you whenever they have the time.
Research the Area Around the Campus
While your college does have its own amenities, you're not barred from going out. Remember that living in a college dorm is almost no different than living in your own apartment. As such, it falls to you to research the surrounding area. See what stores, restaurants, cafes, shopping plazas, and other amenities are around your college.
Moreover, if you opt to rent an apartment off campus, be sure it is safe and close to your college. Apartment hunting can be difficult, but you can use websites that provide apartment search services. Example: If you have decided to attend college in Orlando, you should focus your search on apartments for rent in Orlando, Florida. This will help you trim down your search and increase your chances of finding an apartment.Don't Worry About Organizing Everything at Once
One of the most common worries that new college students have when moving into a dorm is rushing to organize everything. There's no need to organize everything at once. It's no different than moving into a house. Instead, take your time getting used to everything.
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