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By: Javon Huynh, Print Reporter
Make your first year at Georgia Southern a breeze with these must-have items!
Attention all freshmen! We’re here to help you make your dorm room feel like your home away from home with tips from GSU’s upperclassmen. As a freshman entering college, we know it can be one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking experiences, and moving into your dorm shouldn’t be one of them.
So let’s make sure you’re equipped with the right essentials. Jada Deems, a junior at GSU, knows all too well how daunting freshman year can be. Here are her go-to dorm room essentials for new students.
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Hydration and Health are first on Jada’s guides for dorm room essentials. “Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining focus and overall well-being during your college years,” Jada said. College tap water can sometimes be less than desirable.
She continued, “Investing in a Brita or filtered water bottle, which will ensure that you have access to clean and purified water at all times, right from the convenience of your dorm room,” Jada explained.
Storage and Organization are second on Jada’s list. Dorm rooms are notorious for their limited space, so finding creative storage solutions is key. One great idea is the storage ottoman, “which not only doubles as extra seating, but can be used as a hidden storage space for clothes, textbooks, and anything else cluttering up your room,” Jada said.
To optimize the limited floor space in your dorm room, a bed loft is a game-changer. By raising your bed, you can create additional storage space underneath, allowing you to store and organize more of your belongings out of sight, which can help say goodbye to cramped space and hello to a well-utilized space.
Comfort and Relaxation are third on Jada’s dorm room essential list. Dorms can get stuffy, especially during warmer months, and controlling the thermostat may not always be an option. “Getting a portable fan can provide a refreshing breeze and help you stay cool and comfortable while studying or sleeping,” Jada shared. Create a more pleasant environment with this essential dorm room item.
Let's face it, dorm mattresses are notorious for being uncomfortably firm. “Enhancing your sleep experience by investing in a mattress topper is a game changer and can transform your rock-hard mattress into a cloud-like oasis,” Jada said. A good night's sleep is essential for academic success, so don't compromise on comfort, freshmen.
Beauty and Personal Care are fourth on the list and mostly for the ladies, but good skin care could be essential for the guys as well.
“Dorm room lighting may not always be ideal for getting ready, especially when you need to apply makeup or groom yourself. That's where a makeup mirror with adjustable lighting comes in handy.” Jada said.
Adding perfect lighting for your routine can allow you to achieve a flawless look with ease. Look your best and feel confident with this addition to your dorm room.
The last and most important on Jada’s list are Safety and Security. It's crucial to prioritize your safety and security in your new living space. “Invest in a pair of slippers or slides, which can help provide a quick and convenient footwear option for walking through the halls,” Jada said.
Additionally, “Consider having pepper spray on hand for added peace of mind,” Jada said.
With these dorm essentials in hand, you’ll start off your freshman experience at GSU on the right foot. Making sure your space feels like home is just as important as academics.