They say that first impressions are everything. Were you a Magic-playing Trekkie in high school? Or a cheerleader known for her spread eagle (on and off the field)? If so, and you want to trade in your high school persona for a newer, cooler and obviously better one, then having a well-decorated room is the key to your success. Before Facebook-stalking became an appropriate means of "getting-to-know" someone, the best way to impress your potential friends was through your dorm room. Even with Facebook, your room is still a major part of your "whole new you" arsenal. So listen carefully to Street's design guru and soon your room will be to your dorm what the Max was to Bayside High.
*The quickest way to anyone's heart is through a high-quality bed. If you have the most comfortable bed in your hallway it will become a shrine for friends and, more importantly, future hook-ups. So ditch invest in a nice, comfortable, hundred-something thread count set of sheets. The last thing anyone wants is to wake up chafed after a one-night stand.
*Once you've picked a color palette for your linens, you're ready to start decorating the walls. No posters? Head over to Beyond the Wall (415 South Street). Stay away from posters of naked girls, any band you might've liked in 7th grade and baby animals of any kind. Stick to tasteful art, noncommittal bands (i.e. The Beatles, Radiohead), and, if you're feeling confident about your taste, a fun movie poster - but definitely no romantic comedies!
*Don't forget to save space for pictures of your "cool" friends from home. Keep it simple: a few pictures just to prove that you weren't a total outcast in high school should do the trick. Don't overcompensate - pictures say 1000 words. And whatever you do, ditch those cute pictures of you with your prom date. No future hook-up wants to see your high school sweetheart, no matter how hot he or she was.
*Finally, depending on how big your room is, you can add various amenities to take it to the next level. Most importantly, however, is a microfridge. A well-stocked fridge will attract both procrastinators and drunken girls. Bonus points if you snag a freezer. Stock it with Grey Goose, ice and Ben and Jerry's, and you're set, at least until the next late-night binge.
College is a time for new beginnings, so whatever you do: don't be yourself. Find a new, better you through your cool new dorm room. Trade in your Magic cards for a few shot glasses and throw a welcome party for your new, hip self.
