Photography Package

Home Away from Home: How Students Make Lynchburg Home

Emily Gonshorowski

03/24/25

COMM 381

Lexi’s desk with a few of her posters

Lexi Hall’s favorite spot in her room

Close-up of Lexi’s crystal collection.

A close-up of each crystal's significance

Nicolàs Negroni’s bed where he relaxes.

The roommates shared poker wheel they use when they host poker night. 

Guillermo Martino’s shoe collection.

Above Abby’s desk.

Abby’s bunny, Theo.

Alpha Chi Omega letters.

A dorm room is more than just a place to sleep. It’s a personal sanctuary, a reflection of one’s identity, and a home away from home. At the University of Lynchburg, students from different backgrounds bring their personalities and cultures into their living spaces, which showcases their meaningful connections to home. 

For Lexi Hall, a freshman living alone in Montgomery Hall, her dorm is a cozy sanctuary filled with personal touches. She has meticulously decorated her room with posters on the walls and a collection of crystals, each one chosen for its significance. “I love my crystals,” she said. They make my room feel so peaceful.” Lexi’s room is more than just a living area; it reflects her identity, interests, and personality. 

Across campus, living in Shackelford, international students Nicolàs Negroni and Guillermo Martino, both from Spain, have embraced dorm life in a much more minimalist way. Their room may not be filled with decorations, but the scent of incense fills the air, giving their dorm a sense of familiarity. Despite the room's simplicity, their dorm is a welcoming space where they can unwind at the end of a long day. 

For Abigail Monk, a junior balancing life as a member of the equestrian team and Greek life, her dorm is a mix of passion and personality. Among her books and riding gear, one resident stands out. Theo, her baby bunny. “He is the best roommate,” Said Abby. “Having him here makes my dorm feel complete.” Between late-night study sessions and early morning practices, Theo provides this student a sense of home and companionship. 

From crystals to incense to furry companions, these students prove that a dorm room is more than just four walls. It is a reflection of who they are, where they come from, and what they hope to achieve. 

Source List: 

Lexi Hall, First-year student - halla767@lynchburg.edu 

Nicolàs Negroni, International student - negronn522@lynchburg.edu 

Guillermo Martino, International student - marting733@lynchburg.edu 

Abigail Monk, Third-year student - monka257@lynchburg.edu