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You are excited to begin your journey on campus and quickly search the internet for campus living essentials. You are soon overwhelmed with recommendations and are not sure what you will really need or use again. If you are looking to cut down your list and find out what you truly need, look no further.

Your Interests

Outside of classes and social gatherings, your residence hall will be where you spend the most time, which is why it should be a reflection of your preferences. Many first-time college students get roped into trends on the internet and buy unnecessary items. For instance, if you are not a coffee drinker, there is no need for you to buy a coffee machine for your room. Instead, pay attention to your current living situation. If you like to read or crochet, you may be interested in a clip-on lamp for your bed. This allows you to have light without getting out of bed. If you know you dislike studying in public places, decorate your room with studying inspiration. It is important for you to create a setting you will thrive in. Avoid going down the consumer rabbit hole and focus on objects that you know will be useful.

Home

Ann Arbor and our residence halls foster a warm and welcoming environment. Although you may find your lifelong friends and family here, you may still miss your family back home. Decorate your residence hall with photos, trinkets, and inside jokes that remind you of loved ones. You are entering an exciting period of your life and during this time, it is important for you to surround yourself with loving memories. Fond reflection often encourages you to get out there and try new experiences.

Residence Hall Concepts

One of the most important factors in deciding what you should buy for organization and decor is understanding the layout of your room. Residence halls contain four sizes: single, double, triple, and quad. Some items such as a mini fridge or a coffee maker can be shared by you and your roommate(s). (Just be sure to check Housing’s list of regulated and prohibited items to make sure what you’re planning for meets the right specs!) Other necessities such as rolling carts and bins may depend on your bed set up. Residence halls have four bed modifications: loft, half-loft, bunk, and single bed. For example, you will typically have less space for storage if you choose a single bed. However, you can store items under your bed if it is half-lofted. Examples of these modifications can be found on the Michigan Housing website.

Curating your residence hall can be daunting or it can be fun! If you still need some more inspiration, you may want to check local community groups and find cheaper options for resale.