Entering college means for many of us entering a whole new realm––dorm rooms. Whether you have a roommate or are on your own, a private room, or a suite shared with several girls, there are some things you want to consider before moving in. In this series, we’ll cover some of the basics of dorm living and what you’ll need or want to make it your temporary home.
Appliances
There are several appliances you might want to have in your dorm room. However, before rushing out to buy any of them, check with your dorm policies regarding which appliances and such are allowed in the dorm. Some schools don’t allow hot plates or other like items, since they can pose a fire hazard.
Microwave––A microwave is a very handy appliance when living in a dorm. While many dorms may have a small kitchenette for everyone to use, which includes a microwave, it’s nice to have one for yourself when you need to heat up a late-night snack or cup of hot chocolate. Look around at yard sales or clearance sections for a good deal on one, or check with people you know to see if they’re getting rid of an old one. Try to keep the size small, as most dorm rooms are not that large to begin with.
Mini-fridge––A small refrigerator is a great asset to your room. It allows so many options. Having a small fridge means you can stock healthier snacks for late study nights––yogurt, string cheese, orange juice. Or even the occasional roll of chocolate chip cookie dough. There is also a small freezer inside to keep a frozen meal or two for those times you aren’t able to make it to the cafeteria for dinner before it closes. Mini-fridges are often on sale toward the middle to end of summer, as the school year approaches, so start looking now if you’re considering buying one.
Iron––If you have anything at all that will need ironing––and you probably will––you need an iron and ironing board. The iron doesn’t need to be top of the line––a simple one should do the trick. If your dorm room is very small, a white towel can be laid on a table or desk in place of an ironing board.
Remember that these appliances are not essentials––don’t go tell your parents you have to have them!––but they can be helpful. There are many other items you may want to take with you to make your dorm a home––toaster oven, coffee maker (cheaper than buying Starbucks every morning!), or electric kettle. Keep in mind the amount of space you’ll have and whether or not a roommate may be bringing that same item. Which leads us to our topic for next time––sharing a room.
By Lisa Grimenstein
During those three years, I broke up with Frank numerous times. The very last time I broke up with him, he told me that if I ever broke up with him again he would commit suicide. He really messed with my mind. I believed him and I never broke up with him again. Within a few months I was pregnant. I have always felt that it was Frank’s way of making sure that I would never leave him. I thought to myself, what Christian boy would want me now anyway?
My parents were considerably calm and loving to me and to Frank as well. I felt very blessed that they were my parents. Even still, it was so humiliating. I knew I had let them down, and I had let God down. I really felt like I was wearing a scarlet letter around my neck.
I was in my junior year when I became pregnant. I only needed a few more classes to graduate, so I went early in the morning before school started and was tutored in the classes I needed to take. I graduated with the senior class. Graduation day was a totally humiliating experience for me. I cried all the way across the stage to receive my diploma. I wanted to disappear! I couldn’t get across the stage fast enough! My stomach was so huge! I wished I had the diploma mailed to me because that was a very horrible day.
Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7
We recently discussed how to choose a school, as well as offered wisdom from women who’ve been there, so please read that 
Extra Activities. It might take a while to get adjusted, but once you are comfortable in college, seek out different activities in which you can help others, grow in Christ, and also relax and have fun! Look for church student centers where you can meet other Christians and take part in activities of fellowship and worship. Become part of community service groups or other clubs that assist people or causes. If you like athletics, try out for a sports team if you will have the time to dedicate to that. However, while it is good to be involved, never overload yourself. In college, the extra-activity possibilities are nearly endless; just make sure to take part in the ones that glorify God.
Several of my close brothers and sisters in Him are graduating this year. I am saddened by their departure, but I have faith that they will make great impacts for Christ on the people they meet. They may stay near to home or they may go far, but they will always be able to be close to God. Here is an excerpt from Dr. Seuss’s Oh, The Places You’ll Go!: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose. You’re on your own. And you know what you know. And YOU are the [girl] who’ll decide where to go.” Now, as you depart on a bright new road, where will you go? What will you do for Christ? Make the most of this wonderful time in your life–for Him!
After much thought and prayer, I’ve decided that articles will no longer appear on Sundays, which will allow for a full day of worship, family time, and rest. New articles will continue to appear every other day of the week, so if you do read Pierce My Heart on Sundays, there should be several articles from the previous week (and past 
Can you believe it’s summer already? I’m positive you are all glad for a break from school—unless you are involved in summer studies or college prep! We will focus on Ecclesiastes 12:12-13 during the month of July: “…Of making many books, there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh…fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all.” That passage is very fitting for our 
Wisdom from Women
Ecclesiastes 12:12-13 “…Of making many books there is no end, and much study is wearisome to the flesh… Fear God and keep His commandments, For this is man’s all.”
5) If you have a hobby (video games, books, PC games), don’t go out and find a new one to read/play right before a test or finals week! I have all of these. There have been times when I have gotten myself into trouble because I couldn’t put the book down or couldn’t stop playing. Staying up all night to 
Next, choose a topic to study. This will help keep things moving when you get together. Don’t count on just coming together without a topic or book to discuss––it may result in everyone sitting and staring at one another. Decide on a book of the Bible that everyone agrees on. Or choose to discuss a specific topic, such as gossip, purity, or temptation. You may also agree on a book about a biblical topic to study by an author you’d all like to read. Just remember that although other authors may have very biblical things to say on certain topics, there is only one Author and Book you should ultimately go to for answers.
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