Transitioning from home to a dorm room is a major life event for many students. As a mother and Seattle interior designer, I know the importance of this new ‘home’ where students need to thrive not just survive. Colleges provide the rules and lists of what to bring and what to leave at home. Still according to Patricia Francisco, director of housing at San Diego State, “Students are concerned they won’t have something they’re used to at home, so they end up bringing way too much.” I encourage parents to allow their son or daughter to express themselves even if you dislike the bedspread, rug or pillows. Let them put their personality on display.

Here are some ideas for personality and practicality for the dorm room:

• Colorful bedding and large stacking pillows for extra seating
• Posters and photos of friends, family and pets
• Area rugs absorb sounds and keep feet warm
• Floor lamp that moves to suit your study location
• Good quality sheets, consider cotton
• Comforter with a duvet cover, suitable for machine washing
• Bathroom totes and laundry bags
• A basic tool kit is essential as well as a sewing kit
• Battery charger
• Message board and full length mirror
• Drying racks are great for underwear and fragile fabrics
• Clip on lamp near your bed
• Small personal size fan

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