Whether it is your first time moving out of your house or not, moving to a dorm will require some getting used to. The easiest way to make this lifestyle transition smoother is to be informed about what you should expect before your first year living in a college dorm starts.
You will have to learn some new rules
All college dorms have their own set of rules. Some housing establishments have a large focus on preventing fire hazards. This usually means that items such as microwaves, refrigerators, electric kettles, etc., are prohibited.
Some focus more on student relations, which generally means that they want to avoid large confrontations like fights. Most dorms also make a habit of forbidding alcohol since being intoxicated can make you more impulsive and prone to aggression.
The most common rule you will probably have to learn and follow strictly is dedicated quiet hours. This is done to ensure everyone gets enough sleep and has a calm, quiet area to study.
Your best bet is to get to know these rules ahead of time. Doing so can save you the trouble of bringing prohibited items in vain. It could even save you from being fined later on.
Visiting your college’s website or reading their handbook are great ways to do this. You could also get in touch with your future resident advisor.
Your first year living in a college dorm will be very stressful at times
Although there are many stressors in college, there are also many ways to deal with stress while you’re there. But a very particular stress-inducing factor will be your adjustment to dorm life.
Let’s go through a few things you could do to relax during your first year living in a college dorm.
Make sure to always work at your desk, and take regular breaks in your bed.
Don’t study in your bed
Aside from the fact that it is bad for your back to be lying down that much, studying in your bed can negatively influence stress. Your mind needs a separate relaxation and workspace. Your bed should be a spot for you to chill out and sleep.
It would be great if you could avoid studying in your room altogether. Utilizing your campus study hall is a great way to do this.
Another bonus of going to the study hall is that the general environment where everyone is studying around you can help give you extra motivation.
Find your own space
Sharing a tiny room with another person can make you feel like you lack personal space. This can be a big problem when you are trying to relieve yourself from stress. Find your own space away from your roommate and your other friends.
A hidden spot under the bleachers, a designated table in the library, a loud nightclub – whatever suits you most. All that is important is for you to have a place to go when you need to clear your head.
And don’t worry, this does get easier over time. The longer you spend with that person, and the better you get to know each other, the more comfortable you will feel around them.
Develop a friendship with your roommate
While we are on the topic of roommates, getting to know you and developing a friendship with them is an excellent idea for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, sharing such a small space with a total stranger is going to create stress in itself. So, getting to know them and turning them into a friend is already going to create one less stressor for you.
Second, developing open and direct communication can make cooperation easier for you. And, of course, if you are lucky enough to share a room with someone you are compatible with, having a close friend always there to cheer you up will be a blessing.
Visit the rec room from time to time
If your dorm room has a rec room, go there now and then. It’s a good place just to hang out, make friends, and blow off steam.
Just make sure not to go overboard. Too much recreation and not enough studying will not be a fun time when it’s time for exams.
If you’re overwhelmed during your first year living in a college dorm, ask for emotional support from loved ones.
You will need help – get comfortable asking for it
Many things will be new and confusing during your first year living in a college dorm. You will need help from people.
We have already discussed the importance of making friends who will help you with stress. Another great tip is to try to get to know some older students.
They could help you with studying or give you advice from experience. Having good communication with professors will be great if you have any questions.
Even at the very begging, when you are first moving to college, you will probably need professional movers to help with that process. Like anything else, hiring pros can make it easier for you to move.
Studying is also very expensive, so you might sometimes have to ask for financial support from your parents. No one expects you to have everything figured out from the start, so take things one step at a time.
Get to know your RA
One person who will be especially helpful when you need it is your RA. Most dorms have one, so you should use the first opportunity you have to get to know them well. RAs are usually older students who already have experience with adjusting to college.
If you feel homesick or experience problems with your roommate, they’re the first person to talk to. If you find adjusting to college life easy, they may also advise you on which professors are good or where you can find a cheap and tasty lunch.
Make a list of things you like. Then, try and think of a way to represent that in your room.
Personalize your space
Most dorm rooms are pretty dull-looking. A great thing you can do is personalize your side of it a bit. Bringing personal items from home can also help battle homesickness.
other related articles of interest:
5 Tips for Incoming First Year of College
How to Avoid Becoming Depressed During Your First Year of College
Just make sure not to forget anything important. However, it would help if you didn’t stop at memories and nostalgic personal items.
Find a way to show off your personality through decorating. Posters of shows or musicians you like can help the space feel more personal. You could also try to find a way to show off a hobby you have or a sport you like.
To conclude…
Your first year living in a college dorm will be a unique and unforgettable experience. You should try and make the most of it.
Whether it’s making lots of friends or decorating your room, you should enjoy every aspect of dorm living.
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