Ten Affordable Dorm Essentials for Barnard First-Years
What every Barnard first-year needs for their dorm.
Sulzberger Hall. Photography by Haley Scull/The Barnard Bulletin
August 26, 2024
Moving into the Barnard Quad last year was one of the most exciting yet stressful moments in my life. Lugging heavy suitcases and dozens of boxes from the mailroom to my dorm was no easy feat, especially while simultaneously meeting my roommate, trying to meet new friends, and getting acquainted with the campus layout. Looking back, I would have been much more comfortable knowing that I had all the essentials for this new phase of my life. If you are a first-year, don’t fret. I have compiled a list of what you need to be comfortable in your new dorm without draining your bank account–and your energy.
Vacuum - My roommate and I underestimated the pace at which our floor could get dirty and overestimated the abilities of a dust-buster (trust me, it will not adequately get the grime tracked in from New York City streets off a rug). Plus, crumbs and spills are inevitable in any living space. A handheld vacuum should work fine and can be stored under a desk or inside a closet.
Mattress topper - A good night’s sleep is the most important part of being a healthy and successful student. Since the provided mattresses are quite firm, the cushion of a mattress topper can drastically improve your sleep quality. A Tempurpedic works wonders, but many great alternatives exist, such as generic memory foam mattress toppers.
Fans - If your dorm is located in Reid, Brooks, or Hewitt, you will need a fan due to the lack of air conditioning. Remember that heat rises, making conditions extra intense for higher floors. If you are going to splurge on anything on this list, it should be on a big fan with wide circulation. Last year, ResLife provided my dorm with one square fan, but it was not enough to keep cool, so I recommend purchasing a quiet tower fan. I also highly recommend purchasing a smaller fan to perch on your desk. I felt that my room was inexplicably warm even in the winter months, so the fans were blasting 24/7, year-round.
FedEx posters - Instead of paying $10 a poster, I like to print mine for cheap with FedEx. First, I pick some of my favorite album covers and artwork I found on Pinterest. Then, I go to the Sales Sheets section of the website and upload the photo I would like printed, making sure my file is high resolution. There are three size options all under $2 for one poster. You can pick up your prints at the FedEx store conveniently located at 600 West 116th St (next door to the quad).
Extension cord - Power outlets in most dorms are tucked behind beds or desks, so it is important to buy a couple of extension cords to access electricity. I liked these extra-long cords with multiple outlets so I could plug in everything I needed. A surge-protected power strip is a must-have feature to avoid short-circuiting. Nevertheless, familiarize yourself with Barnard’s fire safety qualifications to avoid complications with your cords.
Ambient lighting - The overhead fluorescent lights in the dorms are glaringly white, so you may want to purchase lighting alternatives to make your space feel more like home. My LED string lights were my favorite part of the dorm; they completely transformed my space into a warm fairyland instead of an asylum. My Himalayan salt lamp and my roommate’s sunset lamp were also amazing purchases for increasing the cozy vibes.
Mini fridge - Initially, I questioned buying a mini fridge. Since all first-years have the Flex meal plan, I thought would eat all of my meals in the dining hall and therefore would not have to keep food in my dorm. As it turned out, I used my fridge more often than I thought. It came in handy for storing my study snacks, including fruit from Morton Williams or whatever I took from JJ’s Express using a meal swipe. It also saved my unfinished sandwiches from Chef Mike’s or Milano Market from going to waste. The maximum size of fridge allowed in a dorm is 3.5 cubic feet. Depending on how often you think you will use your fridge or if you are sharing it with a roommate, you can purchase this smaller block option or this taller option that includes a freezer. Do not forget that Barnard Sustainability hosts a Green Sale during New Student Orientation. Many students purchase used mini-fridges at the sale for super low prices.
Dehumidifier - I learned quickly that a dorm in New York City gets humid rapidly, especially if you are like me and love to keep your windows open. A dehumidifier is key to reducing humidity and the chance of mold. During the warmer months, I would have been sweating profusely and feeling disgusting every time I stepped into my dorm if it was not for my dehumidifier.
Shower caddy and shoes - Using the communal showers turned out to be a bigger change of pace than I initially thought. A shower caddy that can hang on a hook is the best way to easily lug all your toiletries from your room to the bathroom. Plastic caddies are easier to wipe down for cleaning and they have a lesser chance of growing mold than mesh caddies. Speaking of clean, remember to use a grippy pair of shower shoes to protect your feet while you wash up.
Phone wallet - Every person entering any building on campus, including the Barnard Quad dorms, must swipe in using their BCID card. After a while, I got tired of fishing through my bag or pockets to find my card. With a phone wallet, your ID will be right there for you and you can avoid holding up the line of students waiting to enter the dorms. This wallet is not only convenient but also shows off your “Barnumbia” pride.
Comments