How to Decorate Your Dorm Room on a Budget!

For those of you heading off to college for the first time this month, you are probably finding yourself excited and nervous. For the majority of you, this will be your first step towards independence and the first time you get to decorate your living space to reflect your personal style. This can be an especially exciting time. Just a few years ago when I was a freshman, I was so excited to decorate my new "home" exactly as I wanted it!

Unfortunately, while you may have high hopes for your new space, you will probably find yourself torn between how to decorate such a little space and keep it functional, and most importantly, do it as cheaply as possible! In addition, most of you will have to find a way to combine your style and needs with your roommates; if you aren't used to sharing a room with someone, this can be a life learning experience about give and take in a relationship.

First and for most, write down what you will need. Will your dorm room have an attached bathroom, or do you share with the floor? Will it have a mini-fridge, extra storage space, a kitchenette, etc.? My freshman dorm room was extremely small, and one wall contained an old fashioned heater, so we couldn't put much on it. In addition, we didn't have a kitchenette, we had a private sink for the two of us, and bunked beds. Needless to say, it was a tight space.

After you established what you will need, see if it is possible to contact your new roommate. Agreeing to share things such as irons, dishes and laundry baskets can mean less you both have to buy and less clutter when you both arrive. Be sure to check for "dorm size" supplies when available and purchase storage containers for under the bed, which can save a lot of space.

Next, decide on a color scheme. If you are like me, I went to college in Erie, Pennsylvania, a great little city, but completely under snow for the majority of the school year. Therefore, having a brightly colored dorm room was essential to keeping me relaxed during the long, dark winter days spent cramming for tests. Colors affect your mood, so think about what you need based upon where your school is located. I suggest something light and airy with simple patterns to help you focus, but without making it hard to sleep. Always see how your roommate feels about your plans- keeping the peace when everyone is stressed about finals is more important than color schemes. The most liked color should be on the bedspread- it is the largest piece of furniture in the place, and therefore the center-point.

As to where to shop, I will forever recommend Target. This store is priced perfectly for the college student, yet it has tons of options and their products are of high quality. Before you buy anything such as lamps and stuff to hang on the walls, be sure to check with your college and their dorm room rules. I purchased a very nice halogen lamp and was forced to take it home as it was deemed a fire hazard. Since they burn more hours, I thought I was making a wise purchase, however I still ended up having to purchase a regular desk lamp.

Next, decide what makes you feel at ease and calm. I prefer the bright coral colors that are still relatively popular, with big white flower prints. Purchase a collage style picture holder to sit on a wall- it will save space versus having tons of picture frames, and will give you a focal point to smile at when you start feeling home sick. Besides Target, Bed, Bath and Beyond carry these in many colors and designs.

One suggestion I received from an older friend was to get a plant for the room. It will help keep the oxygen level up with so many people coming and going; which will help you feel better throughout the year. See if you can put a hook in one of the ceiling corners and get a plant that is bright and colorful.

Overall, the first year of college is an exciting and fun time. Enjoy every second of your new found independence, study hard and keep safe. Having a fun, yet functional room will help you focus when you need to, relax when you need to, and laugh when you need to. Good luck!