We are fast-approaching August and with that comes the scramble to pack everything you'll need to start your life in college. Though this adventure happens every year, somehow it always seems to sneak up on a person. One day you go to bed in July and wake up on moving week. I don't understand how this phenomenon happens, no one does.
1. Water.
Not only are you going to require hydration as you haul your mountain of things up three flights of stairs, you're going to want a stash of it in your room or at the very least some good sized bottles to fill. Also your body requires a lot of water, this is very important to remember as you explore all that college has to offer.
2. Dishes.
Whether or not your dorm has a kitchen in it, you are going to want bring your own dishes. Just the necessities like a couple of cups, bowls, plates and some silverware. Relying on using the dorm's dishes can be risky because dorm kitchens can be locked because people forget to clean up after themselves. Side note: Do not be the person who gets the kitchen locked, this is not the best way to make friends.
3. Cleaning supplies.
You don't need to look like Mr. Clean sponsors you, but a few generals like disinfectant wipes, and window cleaner. If you aren't aware, things tend to get dirty when they aren't regularly cleaned. You laugh now, but one day as you're getting ready for class you'll drop something which will mean that you’ll have to move stuff on your dresser and discover that the dresser's natural color isn't gray and textured.
4. Dish soap.
This goes along with cleaning supplies but this is important enough to have its own section. You need to wash your dishes people, the magic dish fairy that would take care of your dishes at home does not follow you to college.
5. Air freshener.
I don't think I really need to explain why you need air freshener, just know that it's handy to have.
6. Dryer sheets.
These are pretty handy little creatures. Not only can they be used for your clothes they are also wonderful air fresheners (see above) and they help keep hair from becoming overly static when you use one to brush with.
7. Command hooks.
I don't know who invented these glorious hooks of magic, but I'd love to shake their hand. They are perfect to have around when you are living in the dorm.
8. Coloring books.
This may seem really, really silly, but when you are stressed out because of everything that is college, you will revert to childhood and want to color. It could be the first day or the last day, but I guarantee it will happen.
9. First aid kit.
Your college will have a health center, but when you find yourself in need of a Band-Aid at midnight on a Tuesday you will be really glad that you took my advice and packed a first aid kit.
10. Comfy shoes.
You will be doing a lot of walking, pack accordingly or remember to have lots of Band-Aids.
11. Creature comforts.
You will be spending a lot of time in your room, so make sure it is somewhere you can relax and focus on what needs to be done. Take posters, photographs, other wall hangings, curtains, blankets, rugs, whatever it is that you like. Always be sure to communicate with your roommate so that you both have enough space to decorate how you want and be respectful of each other.
12. An open mind.
This is college, a time for you to explore and learn about yourself. You will find people that will make you question what you have been taught in the past, and it will either strengthen what you knew or force you to alter it a bit. Either way, you need to be open to the opportunities you will be offered. They won't always be a perfect match, but at least think about them.
This list does not include everything you will need, no list does, but these are a few of the things that you should be sure to include. College is a wonderful experience. No matter how prepared you think you are, there will curveballs. Be flexible, learn to go with them. Stand up for yourself and work hard. I have total faith in you; you can do this!
"I'm not sure what I'll do, but –well, I want to go places and see people. I want my mind to grow. I want to live where things happen on a big scale." - F. Scott Fitzgerald.
