What You Need For Moving Into The Dorms
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Author: Samantha Hampton
Dorm Essentials
As students are moving into dormitories once again and school is starting back up, it can be quite a change for people living on their own for the first time. Luckily, having roommates while living on a college campus has many benefits towards maintaining social connections and relating to the overall experiences associated with receiving a higher education. Unlike school during the younger years, not every college supplies a list of what students need to bring with them while they are living in the dorms. Here is a list of everything you will need! Hopefully, this list reduces stress while adjusting to a new life.
- Twin XL bedding set: Most if not all colleges have twin xl-sized mattresses. A bedding set is great, as they come with different sheet types and at least one pillowcase. In addition, it is recommended to bring a couple of blankets to accommodate seasonal changes. Remember, pillows are needed too!
2. Mattress topper: The mattresses when I was living in the dorms were not very comfortable, so a light mattress topper made it so I could sleep better.
3. Seasonal Clothing: If you originally lived somewhere that is close to the college you are attending, do NOT bring all your clothes at once. Clothing takes up a lot of room when packing. If you are from far away, be mindful of how many clothing items you are packing, it is recommended to pack a little of everything.
4. Hangers: You are going to need something to hang clothes on if there is a closet!
5. Locks/Lockable storage: Some colleges have lockable storage, so it is handy to use to prevent any theft. It is recommended to bring a few locks with you, they could come in handy. If not, you can always bring your own to hold shoes and other valuable items, such as jewelry.
6. Folding clothing hamper: This is needed to move laundry back and forth, a collapsible one is best to take up less space when not being used, dual-purpose with holding dirty clothing.
7. Power Strips: Dorm rooms usually only have 1-2 outlets, so it’s great to bring some power strips.
12. Miscellaneous: Extra items such as raincoats and umbrellas depend on the area’s seasonal changes. Be mindful of the location of the college campus and bring a sturdy umbrella if the location tends to receive heavy rains and strong winds.
13. Talk with your roommates: Before moving to college, message your roommates to work out items such as sharing the space in the fridge and cleaning routine.
Moving to college can seem overwhelming, but it’s okay, because everybody is having the same thoughts and concerns. Typically, something will be forgotten in the process, but many college campuses are close enough to stores such as Walmart or Target to help along the way. Keep a lookout for places that offer student discounts, details of which will be given to students online or ask your RA. 
