Here are some dorm dos from the experts:
Find out what the school provides. Some dorm rooms come with small refrigerators, and many have vacuum cleaners available (not that they get a lot of use). Some rooms have wastebaskets, some don't.
Find out what the school bans. Most dorms don't allow popcorn poppers, others limit the number of electronic devices.
Coordinate what each person is bringing. There might not be room for your futon and the roommate's bean bag chair. And you don't want to end up with two microwaves and no mini-fridge.
Remember that closet space is limited. Most dorms barely have enough storage space for oft-needed items. Skis, golf clubs and the sousaphone are best left at home.
Think of things from your kid's perspective. If you have to choose between an ironing board or an Xbox, go with the latter.
Keep decorating urges in perspective. Personalizing a dorm room is a great way to make it feel comfortable, but don't overdo. A favorite poster from home is good; a 200-piece Beanie Baby collection, not so much.