I just returned from parent/freshman orientation for my son and I was appalled at the similarities between his dorm room and the county jail. How can I warm up his (very expensive) campus housing, without going deeper into the poorhouse?

Signed: Ivy League Lockup

Maite’: A few well-chosen pieces will go a long way. First, a bold rug will make a huge difference in adding warmth and color to an otherwise drab space, and really hip it up (even if there is already carpet.) A comfortable desk chair will ease the hours of studying, and one oversized, dramatic canvas will add a focal point and might keep him from splattering posters everywhere.

Daniel: A nice inflatable sheep adds warmth, seriously! Okay, honestly I would bring something from home, a portrait or a good desk lamp, anything that is grounding and feels familiar. A good comfort item can really ease the transition into living alone for the first time, as long as it’s not his Yoda bedspread or Spongebob shower curtain.