UCF Dorm Life: Tips for Thriving as a Knight on Campus

Moving into a dorm at the University of Central Florida is an exciting milestone—whether you’re calling Libra, Nike, Neptune, Hercules, or Towers at Knights Plaza home this year. With more than 70,000 students, UCF’s campus can feel massive at first, but don’t worry—you’ll soon be navigating Memory Mall, the Reflecting Pond, and Knights Plaza like a pro.

Dorm life at UCF comes with its own unique experiences. Whether you’re soaking up the Florida sun at Lake Claire, grabbing a late-night snack at Knightro’s, or cheering on the Knights at FBC Mortgage Stadium, making the most of dorm living is key to a successful college experience.

Here’s your ultimate guide to thriving in a UCF dorm, from move-in day to the end of the semester!

1. Know Your Dorm and Its Amenities

Each UCF dorm has its own personality, so getting familiar with your building’s amenities and quirks will help you settle in faster.

• Nike, Neptune, and Hercules – Suite-style dorms with shared bathrooms and a social atmosphere, close to Knightro’s for easy dining.
• Libra – A great option for first-year students looking for a traditional dorm experience, located near Ferrell Commons and 63 South Dining Hall.
• Towers at Knights Plaza – Apartment-style dorms perfect for upperclassmen, right next to the Bounce House (so expect game-day excitement!).
• Lake Claire – If you love nature, this dorm gives you access to kayaking, paddleboarding, and trails, making it a unique on-campus living experience.

Tip: Find out where your nearest laundry room, study lounge, and campus shuttle stop are. UCF’s Pegasus Express shuttle is a lifesaver when you don’t feel like walking across campus in the Florida heat!

2. Stay Cool – Because Florida is HOT

Let’s be real—Florida heat is no joke, and UCF’s campus can feel like an oven, especially in August. Keeping your dorm cool and comfortable will make all the difference.

• Invest in a fan. Even if your dorm has air conditioning, a clip-on or tower fan helps circulate air and keeps you cool at night.
• Hydrate constantly. Always have a refillable water bottle with you—hydration stations are scattered all over campus, so take advantage of them!
• Blackout curtains can be a lifesaver. If your dorm gets direct sunlight, invest in blackout curtains to keep your room cool.

Bonus Tip: If you’re heading to the Reflecting Pond or Lake Claire to relax, bring a cooling towel—it’ll make studying outside much more bearable.

3. Find Your Favorite Study Spot (That’s Not Your Dorm)

Dorm rooms are great, but when it’s time to cram for an exam or write that last-minute essay, you’ll want a dedicated study spot away from distractions.

Best Study Spots at UCF:

• John C. Hitt Library – A classic go-to, perfect for quiet study sessions or group work. Plus, there’s a Starbucks inside!
• All Knight Study – Open 24/7 during finals, this spot is designed for students who thrive in late-night study mode.
• Trevor Colbourn Hall (TCH) – If you like natural lighting and modern spaces, this is the place to be.
• Barnes & Noble Café – Located in Knights Plaza, it’s a quieter alternative to the campus Starbucks and has great seating.
• Lake Claire Recreation Area – If you study better in nature, this is a peaceful spot to bring a hammock and get work done.

Tip: During exam season, seats fill up fast—get there early to claim a good spot!

4. Make Friends and Get Involved

UCF is known for its huge student body, so getting involved in clubs and activities is key to making campus feel smaller and more personal.

• Join a club! With over 650 student organizations, there’s something for everyone. From Knight-Thon to Intramural Sports, find your niche and meet new friends.
• Attend Pegasus Palooza. The ultimate Welcome Week event, where you can meet fellow freshmen and get free UCF swag!
• Go to football games. Even if you’re not a sports fan, tailgating at FBC Mortgage Stadium and joining the Knightmare student section is a must-do experience.

Tip: Follow @UCF on Instagram and check Knight Connect for event updates so you don’t miss out!

5. Sleep Well – Because College is Exhausting

Between classes, social events, and late-night study sessions, getting good sleep in a dorm is easier said than done. But trust us—proper sleep is a game-changer.

Dorm Sleeping Tips:

• Invest in a mattress topper – UCF dorm beds aren’t exactly luxury hotel quality. A foam topper makes a huge difference.
• Use a white noise machine or app – Whether it's roommates talking or game-day noise from the Bounce House, blocking out sound can improve your sleep.
• Stick to a sleep schedule – Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time each day to avoid feeling exhausted in class.

Bedly Straps: The Dorm Essential Every UCF Student Needs

Your bed is your sanctuary, so why not make it as comfortable as possible? Bedly Straps keep your mattress topper and sheets securely in place, ensuring you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. No more slipping sheets or tangled bedding—just a good night’s sleep to fuel your UCF adventures.

🚀 Exclusive UCF Student Offer: Use the code SLEEPWELL at checkout to get a special discount on Bedly Straps. Sleep better, study harder, and enjoy dorm life with ease!

Conclusion: Make the Most of UCF Dorm Life

Living in a dorm at UCF is an unforgettable experience. From exploring campus hotspots to making new friends, there are endless ways to make Knight Nation feel like home. Just remember to stay cool, find your favorite study spots, and prioritize your sleep. And when it comes to getting the best dorm bed setup, don’t forget to use Bedly Straps with code SLEEPWELL for extra comfort.

Charge on, Knights! ⚔️💛🖤