You asked:

I’m getting cabin fever in my tiny room. How can I make it feel less crowded in here?

Dorm rooms are ridiculously tiny, so it’s normal to feel a little caged-in at times. Here are some tips to help you spread out a little:

• De-clutter In a place so tiny, things are bound to pile up, so get rid of anything you don't need or use. Every year, I get halfway through the semester and realize I brought a bunch of unnecessary items. If your parents are visiting or you're heading home for a visit, give a send-off to anything that’s just taking up space.
• Rearrange When my bed was smack in the middle of my overcrowded triple, there was no floor space. If your furniture isn't attached, moving it to the outside walls will really open up the room.
• Stack up Lofting beds provides more space, and putting milk crates on one corner of your desk makes a sturdy bookshelf to get some stuff off the floor. I've even seen a fridge and microwave one on top of the other and both sitting on a small chest of drawers. If it works and you can reach it, why not?
• Open up Throw the shades up and let natural light into your room so you don't feel so closed off. And if you don't mind the occasional passers-by, leave your door open.
• Step out! As the weather warms up, get out of your room. Study under a tree instead of at your desk. Go outdoors for some fresh air and sunshine that will make you feel less cooped up.

Name: Liz Cruger
School: College of William and Mary
Year: Senior
Major: Psychology and English lit
Her deal: This is Liz’s second year as an R.A. for freshmen. She is also involved in several campus activities, including pep band and the belly dance club.

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