The college transition is exciting—but let’s be honest, dorm life can feel a little impersonal at first. Whether your student is feeling nervous or eager, here are five practical ways to help them create a cozy, comforting space that feels like home from day one.

1. Bring a Touch of Home

Encourage your student to bring familiar items that remind them of home—a favorite blanket, a few framed family photos, or their go-to coffee mug. These small comforts can ease homesickness and help their new space feel more personal.

2. Create a Cozy Corner

Dorms can be pretty barebones, but with a few key additions—like throw pillows, a soft rug, or string lights—your student can carve out a little sanctuary. A cozy corner for reading or journaling can make the dorm feel less like a temporary stop and more like their own space.

3. Add a Signature Scent

Scent is closely tied to emotion. A plug-in air freshener, essential oil diffuser, or even a drawer sachet can bring a familiar or soothing smell into their space (just check with the school’s rules). Lavender, eucalyptus, or a scent from home can do wonders.

4. Set Up a Shared Space Plan

If your student has a roommate, encourage them to talk early on about how to make the room feel welcoming for both of them. Even something as simple as choosing a shared color scheme or setting boundaries for quiet hours can help build a peaceful, collaborative atmosphere.

5. Start a Weekly Ritual

Whether it’s a weekly call with you, a Sunday walk around campus, or Friday night pizza with friends, rituals provide structure and emotional comfort. Help your student brainstorm a few routines that ground them and make college life feel more predictable and supportive.

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Starting college is a big step, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little planning and a lot of heart, your student can turn that plain dorm room into a personal haven that helps them thrive.