Going off to school presents many new challenges students may not have faced before, but one of the most exciting and the most challenging is living on your own, away from home. For many students, living in a dormitory will be a new experience. The following are some tips to help ease your transition into living in the ATC dorm:
QUESTION:
I've been approved to reside in the ATC Dormitory, what should I bring with me?
ANSWER:
If you have been approved to reside in the ATC Dormitory, we recommend that you bring the following items:
- Alarm Clock to ensure you arrive to class on time!
- Your own towel (and wash cloth, if you use one). We will provide sheets, blankets, etc.; however, you are welcome to bring your own bedding.
- Laundry soap, fabric softener (if you use it) and dryer sheets. We have washers and dryers for use in the Dormitory.
- Personal toiletries (example: shampoo, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc.)
- Comfort items from home (example: slippers, shower shoes, robe, photos of family, etc.)
- Lap Top or tablet. We have a computer lab set up in the recreation room for your use; however, WiFi is also available in the building.
Other tips for making a smooth transition into the dormitory include the following:
Explore your dormitory early!
When you get to campus, take some time in the first day or so to get familiar with the facility. Find where the laundry room is, check out the recreation room, find the closest bathroom. Knowing what is available near you will will be important when you feel like you need to know...
Get out!
Living in a small dorm room can make anyone feel claustrophobic pretty quickly. It pays to get out of your room and go study or hang out elsewhere. Its more important that just a change of scene, you will meet more people this way.
Organize your room early!
It can be tempting to put off setting up your room at the beginning of the year when it seems like so much is going on, but it only gets busier. Take the time to set up your room, making it organized and clean so at least you know it can be.
Give your room some personality!
Just because your one room double is only slightly larger than some closest doesn't mean it has to be depressing. Get creative with decoration. Put up posters and pictures of friends and family... the sooner you make your room your own with fun decorations, the more you will enjoy living there.
Prop your door open!
When you're in your room hanging out or setting up, prop your door open so people can stop by. Its a great way to invite people to come say hello and you can meet your neighbors easily this way. Don't be afraid to go knock on their doors and say hello, too!
Set Expectations from the Start!
For many, this will be your first time away from home and you have never had roommates before. It is important to set expectation and rules early to ensure a smooth relationship. Explain your sleep and study habits, and set guidelines like, "no guests after 9 pm on school nights." Decide on a schedule to clean your room (like Tuesday after dinner before room inspections) and then stick to your schedule. Don't be shy about broaching more uncomfortable subjects, like loud noises or breaking the rules. Trust us: its better to talk about things ahead of time!
Communicate with your roommate!
Setting expectations is extremely important, but frequent and ongoing communication is also essential!
Follow the Golden Rule!
Also remember to "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." it may sound old fashioned but when you're living with so many other people around you all the time, it pays to be considerate!