Closets, Dorm Rooms and Lights...Oh, My!

"Back to School" sales start earlier and earlier each year, it seems. Walking through a department store the other day, I saw all of the requisite college supplies on display and then some. When I was in college, a dorm room was basically four walls (painted concrete block), tile floor, bare bulb in the ceiling. Now, there are bright storage cubes that double as seating, funky portable shelving, storage drawers, and really cute lighting options: multi-colored desk lamps, floor lamps, and table lamps. One must-have light for all students is at least one battery operated light from Mr Beams.

Wireless Environment offers a line of LED battery operated lights which are perfect for dorms. The Anywhere Ceiling Light can be mounted or placed in closets, on desks or shelves to provide supplemental lighting without the hassle of wires or plugs. Students like the hands-free feature of motion detection, which means that you can look through your closet, drawers, cubby without having to hold a flashlight or flip on a light.

One concern I had as a student at Ohio University in Athens, OH was the frequent power outages we experienced. Limited back up power meant dark (really dark) nights in our room. Studying meant a trip to the library, which was a hike through a dark or dimly lit campus. Supplemental lighting from Mr Beams would have allowed us to stay safely in our rooms to read, make flashcards, study with roommates.

Part of the campus life experience is social adjustment. Learning to live with roommates requires discipline and the art of compromise. No one appreciates light pollution--with a Stick Anywhere Night Light, students can make their way to the bathroom safely, change clothes, grab keys without disrupting sleeping roommates.

Preparing to leave for school can be an emotional roller coaster for kids and parents. We want to anticipate every need to ensure a successful school year. Be sure to carefully create your checklist so that you or your students is comfortable and confident at his or her "home away from home". Pack some Mr Beams lights for sure, and don't forget the cookies and ramen noodles.