As a college freshman, I looked at every Pinterest checklist I could find to figure out what I would need in my new dorm room. I checked everything off and moved in feeling confident I didn't leave anything out, but as expected, I brought things I didn't need and forgot a few essentials. Check out this checklist for your first year of college!
What You'll Need:
1. Headphones
There will be nights when you can't sleep and wake up to watch some Netflix. Don't be a rude roommate, use your headphones every time.
2. Extra Sheets
I know, you think you'll be mature and keep up with when you need to wash your sheets, but you won't. Take an extra set with you to make the process easier to procrastinate.
3. A First-Aid Kit
I didn't think I would need band-aids, but after a hard fall over a curb outside my dorm, I was extra thankful to have these handy.
4. Cold Medicine and Tissues
You will probably get sick at some point in time during fall semester and having NyQuil on hand is always a good idea. Tissues and cough drops are great too.
5. Toilet Paper
I know, you think it's provided. Unfortunately, it's not. (Get your parents to buy you the 48-pack at the beginning of semester. That junk is expensive.)
6. Box Fan
As much as you want to change the thermostat to meet what you want it to be, there will be other roommates who want it differently. So, keeping a box fan ensures you won't absolutely die in the August heat.
7. Desk Chair
If you're planning on doing your homework in your bed every night, don't. It gets really irritating and uncomfortable. Invest in a comfy desk chair, you'll thank me after midterms.
8. Duffel Bag
This seems like a no-brainer, but I forgot one! After my first trip home carrying all my things in a hamper, I looked into bringing back a duffel bag.
Many things will suggest bringing way too much stuff that you likely won't use. Here are my suggestions of what not to bring:
What You Won't Need:
1. Iron and Ironing Board
Chances are, you won't use it. Besides, a steamer or Febreze and a 10-minute spin in the dryer works just as great as any iron.
2. Candles
Trust me, these are a bad idea. My roommate set her hair on fire last semester with these bad boys. Though it made for an interesting story, colleges don't allow open flames in dorms for a reason.
3. A Bunch of Food
The cafeteria has most of what you'll want anyways, so don't waste your money on snacks.
4. All Your Clothes
Decide what you think you'll need for the first month of school and leave the rest at home. Don't overpack (you won't need those ski bibs or your 13 different bikini bottoms).
Good luck to all the college freshmen out there! Enjoy the next four years and cherish every day.
