Learning Curve: College Must Haves...

If you're like I was about this time last year, you're a new high school graduate with pockets full of cash. You've probably got more money on you right now than you've had your entire life. I fully support going out and buying yourself a few spluge items. Don't go overboard with it though. It's wise to put some of it in a bank account. Most importantly, you need to furnish your dorm room! It's going to be your home away from home, so you need to make it as comfortable as possible.

You'll need to buy things, that for most of your life have always been in the closet. Stock up on shampoos, body wash, face wash, all that kind of stuff. Buy a few towels in different sizes, from full size to wash cloths. A robe to wear to and from the bathroom is probably a good idea too, unless your bathroom is attached to your room. A basket to carry it all in is very helpful. Get a first aid kit too! You'll need a band-aid at the most random times.

Now for the actual decorating...
You want your room to represent you, just like the one at home, but on a smaller scale. You can't drill holes in the walls, or use any kind of nails in most places, so bring posters and pictures that can be hung with tape of sticky-tac. I also recommend bringing a dry erase board and/or cork board. It's a great way to keep up with assignments and important papers.

Make a run to your local office supply store before you leave. Having a stapler, paper clips, tape dispenser, tacks for the cork board, magnets, pens/pencils, highlighters, post its...

For the bigger items (t.v., mini fridge...) get together with your room mate and decide who brings what so you don't end up spending a lot of money and your room mate spends nothing. This worked really well for my room mate and I. She got a t.v. for her birthday and I brought the mini fridge we used all year.

You'll find out there are more things you need as you adjust to college life. These are just a few of the things you might want to think about getting to start the year with.

Quote to live by: "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."
-Eleanor Roosevelt.