How to Decorate Dorm Rooms

Decorating dorm rooms can be one of the more enjoyable and exciting aspects of moving back into the college residence halls and starting another academic year. Find 7 ideas for decorating dorm rooms in order to make them more cozy, personal, and -- well -- more like home.

Difficulty: Easy

Time Required: Varies

Here's How:

1. Add a plant (or two). Even a tiny plant in a tiny container can add a bit of warmth and personality to a dorm room. Check out a local drug store, grocery store, or even a place like Target or Walmart for something small and easy to take care of.
2. Add (or change the) curtains. Chances are your dorm room comes equipped with, er, less-than-ideal blinds or window coverings. You can add an instant pop to your room by adding your own curtains -- or even making your own.
3. Add a small rug. Even if your dorm room has carpet, chances are it isn't plush and welcoming. A small throw rug in a funky shape or color can instantly draw people into your room.
4. Add a desk lamp or side lamp with a nice shade. Gonna be up late studying? Your roommate probably doesn't want the overhead light on until 3:30 in the morning. A small desk lamp or side lamp is a nice touch; one with a pleasing lampshade is even nicer.
5. Keep it clean and make the bed. It's amazing how much nicer a room looks after it's been cleaned. A quick tidying up and straightening of your sheets and comforter can do wonders for making your residence hall room nicer.
6. Clean up and organize electrical cords. Computer, speakers, cell phone charger, light, printer, iPod, e-reader ... that's a heck of a lot of cords. Group them together and use plastic ties or rubber bands to keep them organized -- and out of sight.
7. Add photos in frames or on a cork board. While most photos these days are electronic (on Facebook, your cell phone, and your computer), there's still something charming about an actual print. Consider printing a few of your favorite shots and rotating them through actual frames as the year progresses -- or, if you still want to go the electronic route, consider letting a digital photo frame do the work for you.

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