I'm spending a month in a dorm this summer for a film workshop i'm taking. I'm 28 years old and have never lived in a dorm before. What do I bring? Not clothes (I have that covered),but things like a radio, books, a lamp, a case of water, toiletries, etc. I'm worried i'll forget something essential. Thanks!
is it a regular dorm dorm? i.e. bathroom down the hall? in which case, i would say plastic flip flops and a big terry-cloth full-coverage bathrobe are needed.
do you know what dorm you'll be staying in? definitely bring flip-flops and a robe, also pick up a shower caddy. you might not need it, but if the bathrooms are communal it's a lifesaver. i would also get a lamp (the dorms are relatively dim) and a fan (there's no air condition and boston summers are muggy.) i wouldn't necessarily bring water b/c you probably won't have a fridge (unless you like lukewarm water.)
Bumblebee-Yes, it's a regular dorm and thanks for the bathrobe suggestion, because that is exactly the type of necessity that would slip my mind.
Honey-We don't get our assignment 'til we arrive and I don't want to post them on the internet. Thanks for the fan idea, that's another item that probably wouldn't have occured to me 'til after I was settled in.
Regarding the water I don't "like" it warm, but I drink more than a half gallon a day and even more in the summer so I rather drink it warm and cheap than blow money on it at a convenience store. Actually I just realized I could just bring a refillable bottle.
Thanks to both of you and keep the ideas coming. I appreciate it!
i say a lamp definitely!! those harsh flourescents do not make for much comfort...especially when youre up late reading or studying you just need a lamp for a little light...
then i would say: all your regular toiletries, sheets and a comforter or some kind of heavy blanket, maybe a rug to throw down on side of your bed, and some cheap flip flops for the shower, and money for food and id say your good to go!
If your bathroom is down the hall, you may want to get a shower caddy to put all your toiletries in if you don't feel comfortable (or aren't allowed to) with leaving your stuff in the bathroom. Don't forget an alarm clock. ;) I'd say be on the safe side and bring some Lysol tub and tile cleaner and/or a duster for when you first move in. I did the dorm /sorority house thing for 4 years and each time I moved in the room was *filthy* from the previous occupant.
one more thing, definitely pick up an egg crate and a mattress pad. you don't really need twin xl ones, i've found that regular size twin stuff works just fine on "twin xl" beds. they'll make the bed more comfy and add an extra layer of protection b/t you and the bed. those mattresses can get pretty grody.