By Soleil Shah, Ana Delalamo, Lily Keeley, Camila Felsing
Choosing a roommate, packing things and organizing the dorm are some of the most exciting parts of moving to college. Students must think about what to bring, to buy and to leave at home. While some get excited and overpack, others are unsure about what essential items they need and are careful not to forget anything. Knowing what to take, and what not to take are essential steps to have a successful move in day as a rising college freshman.
As the 2024 – 2025 school year comes to an end, seniors start to find roommates and plan what to bring to their dorm. Seniors will bring everything from necessities to sentimental items that will remind them of home. “Pictures of friends and family, a candle that reminds me of home, and a letter from my grandma when I got into college” are some of the items that senior at PVHS, Alex Zurlinden, is prioritizing to take to the University of Georgia in the fall.
“Bringing an excess of school supplies like highlighters, binders and notebooks is really unnecessary in college. Nearly everything is digital now, so most of it will end up sitting untouched.”
Emma Jabour (sophomore at UF)
Taking advice from current college students can make the path of dorm packing easier for future college students. Chelsea Sutton, freshman at the University of Tennessee, recommends bringing a quality laptop, comfortable bedding, organizational pieces (such as bins and shelves), a mold proof shower curtain, and multiple power strips and chargers. She also encourages rising freshmen to bring decorations that remind them of home. Emma Jabour, a sophomore at the University of Florida (UF), believes that bringing a vacuum is extremely important, “especially if you will be in a dorm with tile floors” because “dorms get really dirty quickly with two people living in such a small space. “It is also essential to visit University websites to read about what supplies they recommend bringing. The University of Florida offers a broad up-to-date packing list on their Housing and Residence Life page. It gives a full insight that includes all the essentials from flashlights to fabric softener. Even adding some health essentials to ensure incoming freshmen feel prepared and safe.
Balancing between items that you need and do not need can be an overwhelming task when moving out for the first time. “I would try not to bring too many decorations, especially if you’re in a dorm. Moving out is usually during finals week and super chaotic, I was so thankful I kept my room simple” said Jabour. Packing excessive supplies might seem like a good idea when starting your college journey, since it makes you feel more prepared for the responsibilities that will be faced when living alone. However, packing too many items such as clothes and shoes will not beneficial since dorm space is limited. “Bringing an excess of school supplies like highlighters, binders and notebooks is really unnecessary in college. Nearly everything is digital now, so most of it will end up sitting untouched” added Jabour.
Overall, students must keep in mind that “less is more” when it comes to getting prepared for college. In such an overwhelming college moving season, students must remain calm, stay organized, and pack wisely. Although it might seem like a stressful task, it is important to check on future college website, take advice from current university students, and communicate with students’ roommates. And remember, starting college is an exciting first step towards the future.
Pictured: College freshman Taylor Pearce’s dorm
