If you get only ONE thing before going to college, make it a double-hanging closet rod. This is a lifesaver for your tiny dorm closet!

Get two or three crates, and the possibilities are endless: bookshelf, nightstand, under-bed or top-shelf storage, laundry hamper... You can find crates in the big-box stores (Wal-Mart, Kmart, Bed Bath & Beyond) near campus.

No one wants their computer to get fried during a freak thunderstorm. Make sure there are enough outlets for your laptop, printer, speakers, phone, etc.

You will probably need 4 bath towels (the large size) and a few hand towels.

Bringing laundry home to wash? Gotta have one of these. Mesh is best so that your clothes can air out their funk. Also doubles as a hamper if you don't have room for a large plastic one.

Your need for this depends on whether you'll be ironing anything... remember to get an iron (or take your parents' iron so they can get a new one!).

Almost all dorms have a sink in each room. You will need a toothbrush holder that is easy to clean, like this simple suction one (NOT the kind that's a cup with holes in the top, which your roommate will forget to clean and you will refuse to touch once you see the nastiness inside). I like this suction kind because they stick right to the mirror and stay out of the 'splash zone.'

If you're using a communal bathroom, you'll need a small, easy-to-clean, rust-proof carrying caddy. Also great for under-sink, bookshelf, desk, and closet storage.

You can easily find a less-expensive 'egg crate' foam topper at a big-box store near campus. Regardless of price, a foam topper is essential if you even want to *think* about falling asleep on the rock they give you for a mattress.

Because you won't know who has slept on your mattress the last 10 years. Also great for those who are allergic to dust/dustmites.

Catching and/or spreading STDs is never cool. Don't be embarrassed to whip out the protection. On most campuses, you can pick up free condoms and dental dams from the health center.

Every college student needs a lightweight "handyman" tool kit.

Get an inexpensive microwave -- you'll use it all 4 years and will always be thankful you bought one. Most dorms let you have a microwave in your room (check before buying, though). Note that I haven't included a fridge on this list, as many dorms already supply them.

You're going to need to feed yourself eventually!

A large, versatile nonstick skillet (or a wok, if that's what you prefer) is your #2 essential cookware piece. Careful with teflon, though: your unwitting roommates may use a fork and scratch it up (mine did, every year). For those who don't want to use teflon or worry about scratches, Good Cook makes an inexpensive pre-seasoned cast-iron skillet.

Lap desks' usefulness depends on the person, I think. I loved doing homework on my bed and actually still use my lap desk today. Ones with a large surface are the most functional.

Floor lamps make your room feel a little more like home, but be warned: they can be a pain to move/store during the summer.

Despite their best intentions, people will spill stuff in your room. If you decide not to get a stick vac (below), it would be wise to get a brush & dustpan set.

If you don't want to get a vacuum, you'll need some kind of dry floor sweeper to clean all the dust bunnies that inexplicably materialize underneath your bed, behind your desk, and in your closet.

Your need for this rolling under-bed storage container largely depends on what you do with the space underneath your bed (like put a mini-fridge there). These slim rolling storage boxes are handy for shoes, linens, dishes...