It’s almost time to start your first year of college, and I have no doubt that you are running around your hometown trying to gather everything you need for freshman year. You may be consulting college supply lists from places like Bed Bath and Beyond, Pinterest, or even The Odyssey, but most of these lists are generalized. Our school has many unique traditions and events that make it an amazing place to be, but it can be hard to plan for some of the things you may need throughout the year. To make it easy for you, I have created a personalized University of Richmond list of a few things I did not initially bring last year that I wish I had with me.

Wacky clothes and accessories:

The fraternity lodges will always have a theme, so be sure to bring some of your crazy tights, t-shirts and Halloween costume accessories. You will eventually learn to get creative with outfits that you don’t have specific clothing for, but a few common themes during the year are: Jungle, Space, Beach or U.S.A.

A white shirt you don’t mind getting covered in paint:

In August, the whole school will come together to participate in the annual Color Wars. The classes split up into the red or blue team, fending off their opponents with either red or blue paint. It’s fun and it’s messy, and your shirt will never be white again.

A water filter:

You may have already gotten this, and in that case, you’re all set. The reason why I chose to put this on here is that there are no water fountains in the freshman dorms, (only ice machines) and it’ll make your life a lot easier.

A white dress or a suit and tie for Proclamation Night/Investiture Ceremony:

The University holds a special ceremony involving Freshman and Seniors for both Westhampton College and Richmond College every fall. It’s an evening that you will never forget, especially if you find yourself scrambling to find the proper clothing the afternoon before the event. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to find a white dress or a suit and tie if you don’t already have one!

Raincoat, rain boots and an umbrella:

These may be obvious items to have on your list, but if you don’t rain gear, I suggest you get it right away! It doesn’t rain too much in Richmond but when it does, it rains a good part of the day. These items are also extremely useful for when it’s barely snowing and a winter coat or boots are too heavy for the temperature.

Good luck this year, you'll absolutely love it!