by Christa Abernathy

Created on: January 06, 2007   Last Updated: August 25, 2009

After spending 5 years in college, I've got the dorm decorating thing down. First things first - buy lots of 3M strips or plastic tack; you'll need it.

Now, if you want to decorate inexpensively, but still want to feel at home in your tiny space I suggest taking one or two of your favorite bedroom decorations with you when you leave for school. Most likely, you'll want a poster or 10 up during your freshman year. By your senior year, you'll have too many photographs plastering your living space for any posters. However, since you're just starting out go ahead and splurge on those posters. You can always weed them out later.

Hit the after Christmas sales and snatch up those multi-colored lights. You'll find that stringing them around the room adds sparkle for not a lot of cash. Plus, you can leave them on in the evening and do your homework while your roommate's sleeping or playing videogames.

You don't have alot of room, so remember that storage is key. Get some under the bed storage boxes to stow your stuff that you don't use daily.

Make use of the moveable furniture in the room. This isn't always possible (especially in Freshman housing) because the furniture is often built in or nailed down. But if you can move things around, do. My suggestion is to get in to your room before you begin moving things in and arrange things how you want them. Check with your roommate first to avoid confrontation later on. Often times, the room isn't laid out in the most conservative way when you first move in. Move things around and see what gives you both the most space to play. This will give you the opportunity to decorate the way you want and bond with your new friend.

Buy a cheap fold-up chair that suits your personal style. While most schools provide a desk and chair, these items are rarely comfortable or attractive. Splurge a little and bring something that has your name all over it.

If you have a lot of cds, you can decorate easily with them by purchasing a wall cd rack. They display the cds so that you can find the one you want easily while at the same time attractively covering that hospital green wall that you will grow to hate.

Get ahold of your roommate before the move-in date. This way you aren't both bringing a tv, fridge, or stereo system. While you both need your computers, you only need one of each of the other large items. You may decide you only want one phone too. When you call, ask your roommate what he or she wants to bring and try to make arrangements to bring the rest or buy it when you arrive.

Have fun after you arrive finding things that fit both of your personalities. With any luck, you'll be together longer than most Hollywood marriages.

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