<p>I'm going to a summer program for high-schoolers called COSMOS and we'll be living in the ERC dorms for 4 weeks. Can you all give me any general info about it? Sorry I don't have specific questions but since I've never lived in a dorm before I don't know what to ask. I'm a freshman in high school by the way. Just consider the type of questions someone who's never lived at college might have.</p>
<p>Bump…anyone wanna help?</p>
<p>Bump again</p>
<p>My son is in the ERC dorms as a freshman. If you are in the regular dorms, most rooms are currently set up for 3 people and hold a bunk bed and loft bed. Those in the bunks each get a desk, dresser, and a closet. The loft person get a “wardrobe” under their bed that has 2 drawers and a short closet space. They also get a desk. The bathroom is shared by the whole floor. There are laundry facilities available. Most important thing to bring is a fan!!! If you are in the top bunk, you might consider an extra small fan that can attach to your bed frame. There is no AC and the rooms can get pretty hot in warm weather. Also bring a lamp, extension cords and hangers. Most people who are there for long term have a refrigerator in their rooms, but it is not provided and it is probably not necessary for only 4 weeks. There is a common kitchen at the bottom of each unit, but I am guessing your food will be provided at the dining hall in ERC. If by chance they house you in the ERC apartments, there are 4 single rooms in each apartment with a furnished “living room” and a kitchen. Either way, you will also need bedding and towels, and I would get something to carry your stuff back and forth to the bathroom as there is no place to store things in the bathrooms. Other than that, you just need your personal items such as clothing, toiletries,etc. The rooms do have Wi-Fi, but if you bring a computer, just make sure that your room is always locked. The only people that have had problems with theft are those who left their computers in a common area for a few minutes, or those who did not lock their rooms. You can get a computer lock that plugs into your laptop and then loops around a stationary item (bed or desk) but if you are careful you should not have an issue. If your classes are all located around ERC you will have no problem getting around. It is a big campus so you might want to bring a bike or skateboard. There are bike racks at ERC. Also you can easily walk to the beach so bring beach towel/ swim suit/surf board if desired. ERC has very nice dorms so enjoy your 4 weeks there!</p>
<p>I forgot- there are no TV’s so you would have to bring one if you feel it is necessary. Sometimes the common area might have one that the last group left there but most likely not. </p>
<p>I just saw your other thread. This will be a great way for you to meet people so don’t worry if you are a bit shy. My guess is your roommate will also be a bit nervous. There is a window so you could bring some small plants. There is also a small patio for each suite so you could put vegies or other plants out there if you like to garden. As far as the showers, I would take a robe or sweats, and be sure to bring some cheap flip flops for the shower. There is one large bathroom for the whole suite. You can change in privacy in the shower area, and I am guessing that high school students will be fairly modest so you can either wrap with a towel or wear a robe. Don’t worry- you will not be showering in front of everyone. The common area has big couches in it, and some tables built in and that’s pretty much it. When you are in your room, it helps to leave the door open as people passing by will be friendly. Definitely bring a frisbee, or maybe a soccer ball or basketball. There is a grass area in the courtyard and that would be a good way to meet people also. If you tend to get anxious, try to plan some downtime for yourself. There are places you can go where you can sit by yourself and unwind a bit. Don’t be shy about exchanging phone #'s as you can then text when you are going to go eat or do another activity. There will always be someone ready to join you! I am guessing there will be planned activities to help you meet other people and you will have a great time!</p>
<p>Wow, that’s a lot of information! Thanks @takeitallin that answered all my questions!</p>
<p>Oh, also, the beds are X-long twin, so if you take a fitted sheet be sure to get the right size.</p>