Smart Strategies for College Dorm Organization: Expert Tips from Kim Oser
Let’s talk about how to navigate the college transition smoothly without the overwhelm (or endless Target runs).
Whether this is your first college send-off or you're a seasoned parent dealing with a kid who shops like they're preparing for the apocalypse—we get it.
At Go Long, we understand that major life transitions bring complex challenges. That's why we connect with seasoned professionals who address the topics others skip—wellness, finances, life changes, difficult conversations, and yes... the art of strategic dorm packing.
This episode features Kim Oser, the mastermind behind Game Plan Organizing. She's your go-to expert for transforming chaos into order, ready to guide you through stress-free packing strategies that prevent emotional overload (for both you and your student).
This isn't simply about storage solutions and furniture risers—it's about managing a significant emotional transition with greater ease and fewer emergency shopping trips to every organizational store in town.
Let's get started.
DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational purposes only and does not establish any professional advisory relationship.
Watch the full episode by clicking on this image!
Meet Kim Oser
Kim Oser specializes in converting life's chaos into organized, functional systems. Through Game Plan Organizing, she's supported overwhelmed families, individuals, and small businesses for nearly two decades. As one of the original Certified Professional Organizers® globally, Kim recognizes how disorganization amplifies stress across all areas—from cluttered workspaces to important senior documents to streamlining college preparation and dormitory setup.
Her approach centers on compassionate support, delivering peace of mind to clients experiencing various life transitions.
Kim focuses on stress reduction through practical organizational systems. Her clients gain valuable time, space, and financial efficiency—whether they're seniors streamlining their homes or college students preparing for independence. From paper-laden desks to life transitions requiring decluttering, Kim provides supportive guidance that transforms overwhelm into confidence.
Looking ahead: Kim will return later this year to discuss downsizing strategies for both your family home and aging parents' residences.
Key Discussion Points
Leverage digital platforms and online communities for research and planning
Establish clear communication with roommates to prevent dorm overcrowding
Research dormitory amenities and included furnishings before arrival
Implement vertical storage solutions to optimize limited square footage
Evaluate roommate compatibility beyond surface-level preferences
Select versatile furniture pieces that serve multiple functions
Investigate campus mail and package handling procedures
Focus on necessities while avoiding impulse purchases
Students frequently overlook basic dorm essentials, though most items can be quickly ordered online
Encourage student independence in managing laundry and personal living spaces
Introduce organizational tools that support academic time management and focus
Quick Takeaways
Kim: Have a plan for what you’re going to do if everything you purchased is NOT going to fit in the room, particularly furniture. Return windows may have been exceeded. Uber rides can get expensive. Do as much homework as possible on understanding what can actually squeeze into the room.
Jill: Check out social media channels for helpful information on what the move-in process is like. Don’t believe everything you read, but you can pick up some tips that may be helpful for you and your teen as they transition.
Trying to force changes and not getting the results you expect? You’re not alone. Be the change you want to see by trying something different.
Resources Mentioned During the Show
Kim’s Three Things You Should Know Before Moving Into The Dorm
Kim’s Five Essential Time Management Strategies for College Students
Ways to Connect with Kim
Ways to Connect with Go Long
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Go Long recommends listening to the entire podcast for context, but knows you are all busy people so below you will see timestamps. This episode is also available on YouTube.
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Timestamps
00:00: Introduction and Kim's Journey into Organizing
05:27: Starting the College Move-In Process
06:23: Utilizing Social Media for Information
10:03: Understanding Dorm Room Essentials
12:30: Maximizing Space in Small Dorm Rooms
20:08: Roommate Compatibility Factors
24:13: Practical Tips for Dorm Living
26:54: Navigating Dorm Room Essentials
29:04: Understanding College Culture and Supplies
31:50: Dispelling Myths About College Life
35:38: Maximizing Space and Organization
38:48: Time Management and Productivity Tools
43:10: Preparing for Independence in College
45:49: Final Thoughts and The One Thing Parents Forget
