I went to the same college as the first commenter (Joanna), and we weren’t allowed microwaves or toasters in our rooms. The dorm provided both in the kitchen, though. A good thing to get is a hot pot – I used mine so much. I also agree with Joanna about the TV. I found I hardly ever had time for TV, and when I did watch it, it was in a group setting that was a fun time of bonding.

Pretty much, freshmen always bring too much. My parents actually took me shopping the day after I moved in. I was able to get a better feel for what I needed then. Our rooms were so incredibly small… it was much better to have less than more. Check with your potential roommate about what she/he might have and what you might be able to share (TV, fridge, phone, etc).

I’m not sure about most schools, but at Smith we could put up curtains. It’s amazing how much cozier a room feels when it has bright curtains up!

The “extra long” variety are usually more pricey and poorly constructed.

Think realistically about the comforts you use at home and don’t overbuy–if you have a wash and wear wardrobe you can probably borrow an iron for those rare times you’ll need one, for example. I threw away the stuff I didn’t end up using at the end of the semester because it wouldn’t fit in my car to take home!

Oh, and extension chords! Buy extension chords.

Things like Christmas lights are huge with college students–cheap decorations and the actually work for low-lighting.

Second-hand shops can actually be kind of popular with college students.

Shower shoes are a must! I used a cheap pair of flip-flops, something like $3. Worked just fine.

I didn’t realize some dorms don’t allow microwaves. I guess that would save on space–but I cooked so much with mine!
I hated dorm food, ugh.

Bottom line, it’s great to check with your school to see what the deal is. You can ask those questions during tours, or flag down an upperclassmen.

- We weren’t allowed to have microwaves, and there was a limit on how big a mini-fridge could be. Again, check with the housing department before making the purchase.

-I’ll echo what you said about dorm rooms being tiny. Mine was 10′x12′, and had 2 beds, 2 dressers, and 4 bookshelves (luckily, all stackable) and 2 closets. The rule of thumb was that freshmen typically bring twice what they need. You don’t need all the stuff you want to bring- and you DEFINITELY don’t need all the stuff Target & Bed Bath & Beyond is trying to sell you. Seriously.

Kacie- My sister is at IU, and I went to Taylor, so I know the dorm experiences are very different. That’s why I suggest for students to do their research about the campus culture & rules. (My BIL is a senior in high school this year, so I’m getting to hear about the off-to-college experience all over again!)