Decorating a dorm room?

Integrate "decoration" with useful things like storage places. When I was in a similar place as you, but with no $$, I (stole) about 20 black milk crates from the corner store (you can buy them at Walmart). I made all kinds of structures that served as shelves for my clothes, and books, and hobbies. I surrounded my desk, and made an entertainment center. Sometimes when I was bored, and wanted a "new" I would just rearrange them into another "structure". The idea caught on so quickly, that other people were doing it too.

You can get a lot of great ideas at the IKEA site.

Okay! I definitely have an actual answer for this! :)

I just got done moving out of my dorm room at Eastern Connecticut State University, and I know exactly what you mean by it looking like a prison cell. The one way to fix it? Wall clings. You can get them at the Dollar Store, Target, Walmart....basically ANYWHERE that sells dorm stuff. Mine were clings with little quotes on them, like "Nothing is Impossible" and "Happiness: (N) - The ability to love and be loved in return." I also had a giant one of the Eiffel Tower. (:

Anywho, have a great year at school! :D

I say go for wall decals - decent price, no damage and look way better then posters. I got hotbox women at www.surfacecollective.com looks stunning! you can use DORMTAT50 for 50% off promo code

Justin Beiber posters. I dare you.