Welcome to college life! Bright colors make this dorm room a warm, welcoming place after a day in class. UM alum Tommy McMullan used items from Target to create this home-away-from-home in Ingram Hall for an article in the Mobile Register newspaper on dorm makeovers.

Just because it comes as a set doesn't mean it has to stay a set, Tommy McMullan says. Two different bedding sets in complementary colors are used on this bunk bed. Sheets from one set look great with the comforter from another set. Coordinating dorm purchases with your roommate can help cut decorating costs and bring your look together.

Extra seating for friends is a must. Pulling the chair away from the wall provides out-of-the-way extra storage room in the corner.

Just because you can't pound nails into the wall doesn't mean you can't have art. This art student's work leans against the wall, providing a backdrop of color. Create your own art, or bring some paintings from home for a dash of color.

You'll spend a lot of time at your desk, so make it inviting! A big print, bright pillows and plenty of baskets and boxes to store school supplies make this a great spot for learning.

Bright colors liven up a dark room. Lamps are a must for bringing warmth into your dorm room, and for studying late at night!

Do you like to have everything lined up just so, exactly centered and straight? Try something different in your dorm room! Here, two rugs set side-by-side on a slant make the room feel larger.

Accessorize! The string of lights on the bunk bed are just plain fun. Striped cloth shower curtains hang from the top bunk, adding a sense of privacy and complementing the shower-curtain window treatments. Baskets underneath the bed provide additional storage. Pillows make dorm living comfortable and provide extra seating for guests. The striped stool doubles as a bedside table and a seat.