The Big Move-In Day! College-bound: What Not to Forget When Packing.

If you are like the thousands of students across America beginning their journey as a college student, there are a few things you will not want to forget to pack! Many do not realize the importance of tools. As a young adult not too far out from college, I cannot tell you how many times I needed a screwdriver! Things may unexpectedly break or get a little loose, and you may need a quick fix to tighten your desk drawer or a screw in your chair. Another handy tool to have is a flashlight. The weather is unpredictable, and so can be the power lining, so it may be helpful to have a flashlight if the power ever goes out, or even if you may have a dark corner you need to look at to find where you dropped last night’s M&M’s between the bed.

Another useful tool to have on-hand is a set of jumper cables. If you are feeling ambitious, learn how to use these cables before you go to college too! Again, the unexpected happens, and you want to be prepared to take care of yourself. First aid kits can also be extremely helpful to store in the trunk of the car for those occasional bumps and bruises.

The freshman dorms are probably one of the most anticipated and decorated places student will live in. For many, it is the primal opportunity for a room makeover. So, if you have a little extra to spend, go ahead and splurge on some fun posters, curtains, picture frames, or new bed sheets. One fun gift I was given after my high school graduation was a box of stationary, complete with a book of stamps, return address labels, and envelopes. I never thought I would write as much mail as I did throughout my four years of college. Mail is fun! Scheduling can be difficult with classes, campus clubs, part-time jobs, social life, etc., so mailing can help parents and students keep in touch if phone time cannot be fitted into a regular schedule. Planners/calendars are also a smart idea to bring to college. They help students keep track of assignments, log future exam dates, and even remember special peoples’ birthdays. They are also fun to look back at later and remember all of the great things you were a part of in college.

The last and most important thing to remember to bring to college is your own unique YOU! Moving away from home and adapting to a new and foreign lifestyle can be incredibly horrifying, yet extremely exciting at the same time. It is normal to experience a whirlwind of emotions the first few weeks or even months before and during freshman year. Freshmen are going to come from all parts of the country, with various backgrounds. Some will be bilingual, some will be the first of their family to enter a university, and some may be an avid athlete, scholar, or musician. The best part of college is that everyone is different, but are coming together to learn and excel. Bring what you have to offer, and be proud that YOU are going to a school where there will be an abundance of resources to help you excel in any way you desire. Just remember to seek, and you shall receive.