As the new school year begins, college students are settling into their dorm rooms, with some going above and beyond to personalize their space. From professionally designed rooms with high-end furnishings to lavishly decorated spaces like that of Kansas City Chiefs heiress Ava Hunt, dorm rooms have come a long way from the simple setups of the past. However, not everyone can afford such extravagant designs, and it’s important to manage expectations and keep things realistic and affordable.
Psychotherapist Amy Morin emphasizes the need to avoid comparing oneself to others when it comes to dorm room décor. While it’s natural to want to create a space that reflects one’s style, it’s important to remember that dorm rooms are temporary spaces. Going overboard with decorations for a short period of time is unnecessary, and ultimately, success at college is not determined by the aesthetics of one’s room. It’s essential to focus on more meaningful aspects of the college experience, such as hard work and personal growth.
Morin also points out that parents who go into debt to create elaborate dorm rooms may be trying to fulfill their own emotional needs rather than their child’s. Decorating a dorm room with over-the-top furnishings can be a way for parents to cope with their child growing up and leaving home. Instead of focusing on material possessions, parents should use the college experience as an opportunity to reinforce important values such as education, kindness, and resilience.
While some students may feel pressure to keep up with the trend of elaborate dorm room designs, it’s important to remember that success in college and in life is not determined by the appearance of one’s living space. Instead, students should focus on the opportunities for personal and academic growth that college provides. By keeping expectations realistic and affordable, both parents and students can create a supportive environment that fosters independence and personal development.
In the end, dorm rooms are just a temporary stop in a student’s journey through higher education. While it’s natural to want a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing space, it’s essential to remember that what truly matters is the experiences and relationships that are formed during the college years. By focusing on what’s important and avoiding unnecessary pressures to keep up with the latest trends, college students can make the most of their time on campus and set themselves up for success in the future.
