The most important thing about living in a dorm is keeping organized. Since you may be sharing a dorm with a room mate, it will be important to keep your things separated and in places where they are easy to locate. Plus, you will want to respect the fact that it is their space too, and will want to keep it free of clutter. (Lets just hope your room mate keeps that in mind as well!) College life is quite an adjustment, and having a cluttered space will make it hard to concentrate, and could make you late if you are spending your time frantically searching for things that you need.

Here are some organization ideas;

Closet organizing- As small as this space is, be smart about utilizing all the space that you possibly can. Use closet organizing systems which hang up, and have separated spaces for storage. Some systems have a place for hanging your clothes, and shelves, shoe racks, or totes for added storage.

The space under your bed- Using this space can provide a lot of storage. Using totes, plastic bins with lids, or storage that is specifically designed for storing shoes under your bed. Also, a great idea for added space under your bed are bed lifts. These are blocks that go under each leg of your bed and keep them in place securely. They will raise you bed so that you can put larger items underneath. Having this extra space would really be nice

for stackable storage.

The walls- Since the space is limited by the dimensions of the room, use the space that you have on the walls! Adding shelves, cubes, or CD racks which hang securely to the wall, will really provide much needed space for CD's, books, or photos. Also, a cork board or calender is nice for reminders or photos. Use photo frames with hooks and a shelf for added storage, and a place for your keys.

Study space- The study space is a very important area to keep organized. Most likely, you will have a small desk. Try having stackable storage underneath the desk, (leaving room for the chair to be tucked in) to keep papers, various computer supplies, or office supplies. Remember, again, use the wall! The space on the wall above the desk can be used to hang cubes or shelves.

Of course it isn't just about organization, but also style! Many types of bedding come in bags which include all the pieces that you will need. Once you choose the colors or patterns that you will want for your room, you can add throw pillows or window treatments to coordinate. Also, using a bed skirt is a great idea to hide the extra storage area underneath your bed.

One thing to keep in mind when you decorate your dorm, is to include things that add personal touches that remind you of home. Since your dorm is really your home away from home, try placing pictures with decorative frames on the wall, or wall decals with a favorite inspirational quote. If you find that you are running out of room for all of your photos, a digital photo frame is a great way to have many photos in one place. Try adding a cork board to pin up

other memorabilia such as cards, photos, or messages.

Try to find a nice rug that will coordinate with your decor to add color and style. This will also provide a warm comfortable area to walk on.

Even if your space is small, there are many ways to add space and style! Using these tips will help eliminate clutter and give you a space with your own style. The last thing you need is a cluttered space that is too overwhelming to keep your concentration, and make you late for class because you are too busy searching your room for the things you need to start your day. Surround yourself with memories of home too so that you can have familiar things around to make yourself comfortable!