Expressing Identity: The Unique Dorm Room Designs of Middlebury Students
The Art of Self-Expression: How Middlebury Students Transform Their Dorm Rooms
As summer fades and the crisp air of autumn settles in, Middlebury students return to their on-campus homes, ready to dive back into the academic year. But beyond the textbooks and late-night study sessions, one of the most personal aspects of college life is the dorm room. These small spaces are not just places to sleep; they are sanctuaries of self-expression, creativity, and independence. Each dorm room tells a unique story, reflecting the personality and journey of its inhabitant.
A Canvas of Creativity
For many students, their dorm room serves as a blank canvas, waiting to be filled with memories, aspirations, and personal touches. Kate Vasquez ’26, who was thrilled to have a single this semester, embraced the opportunity to create a space that truly reflects her style. “My bedroom at home is every cliché of a girl’s childhood room,” she shared. “I was really excited to have a single this year that I could make mine.” With light colors and mirrors to brighten her space, Vasquez transformed her dorm into a serene retreat.
A Personal Sanctuary
For Skiles Roberts-Salvador ’26, the dorm room is a place of inspiration and comfort. “Decorating my room with creativity of my own, my friends, and even my art students is both inspiring and comforting,” she explained. This sentiment resonates with many students who find solace in their personalized spaces amidst the chaos of college life.
Ellie Trinkle ’26 took a different approach, using her walls to create a joyful and welcoming atmosphere. By adorning her room with maps from her hometown of New York City and cherished mementos, Trinkle’s dorm becomes a nexus of her past, present, and future—a comforting reminder of her journey.
A Reflection of Values and Interests
The decorations in a dorm room often reflect a student’s values and interests. Talia Trigg ’26 chose to showcase colorful sailing burgees and paintings that symbolize her shared dreams with her father. “It feels something like a scrapbook of my life,” she described, emphasizing how her decor fosters a sense of comfort and growth.
Cole Chaudhari ’26 took a more intellectual approach, using his shelves to create a library that represents his academic journey. “The smattering of books I display in my dorm represents an intellectual and artistic map of where I’ve been, who I am now, and where I hope to go,” he shared.
A Personal Altar
For Bella Lucente ’25, her dorm room is more than just a living space; it’s an altar to her story. “Wherever I go, it always feels necessary to hang up all the items I’ve collected throughout my life,” she explained. From posters to random objects, Lucente’s collection tells the story of her journey, making her dorm a deeply personal sanctuary.
A Unique Blend of Interests
Maisha Nuba ’26 took a creative approach to her decor, combining her love for Taylor Swift and Bernie Sanders. A standout piece in her room is a poster that merges both icons, showcasing her multifaceted interests and values. This blend of personal and political reflects the diverse identities that students embrace during their college years.
Conclusion: A Reflection of the Self
Whether they are political, emotional, sentimental, or artistic, dorm room decorations play an integral role in Middlebury students’ journeys to self-realization. These intimate spaces serve as havens of interior design and practicality, each one a unique reflection of the life of its resident. As students navigate the complexities of college life, their dorm rooms become a canvas for self-expression, a testament to their individuality, and a celebration of their personal stories.
As the academic year unfolds, these dorm rooms will continue to evolve, filled with new memories, experiences, and growth. They are not just places to live; they are vibrant expressions of the students who call them home.