Getting ready to move away from home for the first time can be overwhelming and stressful, and doubly so when you’re moving away to attend college or university. You’re probably wondering where you should even begin. We’ve put together some expert tips to help you with your campus move.
- Your university or college will most likely send you a welcome package a month or two before you start the new semester. This package will often include a list of suggested items to bring along with you. Use this list as a starting point when you first start packing.
- Don’t forget to pay attention to the list of prohibited items, as well. Many campus dorms forbid items such as candles and personal microwaves.
- Arrive early in the day, if possible. Remember, your campus will be extremely busy during move-in week. There will be many extra cars and moving trucks on campus, which means parking will be hard to find.
- If you have a designated move-in time scheduled, make sure you are exactly on time. If you show up late, there might not be any space for you to park and unload.
- Try to park as close to the dorm room entrance as possible. That way, you won’t need to walk as far to bring your boxes and furniture to your dorm.
- Get to know your dorm roommate ahead of time. Your university or college may allow you to contact each other before the semester starts. Make sure to ask what type of furniture they are bringing. You don’t want to end up with two of everything! For example, a mini-fridge, floor rugs, TV, etc.
- Find out if you have a private, suite-style bathroom, or a communal bathroom. If the dorm bathroom is communal, there will no doubt be a custodian who cleans it for you. If, however, you have a private bathroom, you will most likely be responsible for cleaning it yourself, along with your suite-mates. Make sure to bring along the appropriate cleaning supplies and toiletries for your first day. For example, bathroom tissue, hand soap, hand towel, etc.
Your move to university or college is supposed to be an exciting day! It doesn’t need to be stressful. Just a little bit of planning ahead will help make your day go a lot more smoothly, and will allow you to experience this momentous day stress-free.