Dorm rooms don’t need to be dim, dull and generic when all it takes are a few key pieces for students to transform their dorm into something out of the norm!

PRIVATE PARTS: Many students have never shared a room before so bunking with a stranger can take some adjusting. Adding a 4-panel room divider ($84.99 - $99.99) from Target can be worth its weight in gold during the “get to know you” phase.

CRATE EXPECTATIONS: Traditionally speaking, a dorm room isn’t complete without a few storage crates. Colorful imitations of the proverbial milk crate ($9.99) and durable polypropylene European commercial crates ($13.99 - $24.99) are available from The Container Store.

THE WRITE STUFF: Whether taking messages for one’s roommate, writing to-do lists, or working out the latest math equations, students can look to Whiteboard products which include dry-erase pads, XL boards and dry-erase markers for out-of-the-box communication.

KEEP IT CLEAN: Bed Bath and Beyond offers pop-up mesh laundry hampers that hold dirty laundry and house detergent. Available in a variety of colors, the stylish space-saver matches mesh shower totes ($12.99) which store squeaky clean scholars’ soap, shampoo, towels, and more.

HOME IS WHERE THE ART IS: Leaving home can cause anxiety for students, especially if it’s their first time away. To lessen the pangs of separation, Easy Canvas Prints will turn a family photo into a canvas ($15 - $175) so loved ones can literally hang around 24/7.