As the last beach breezes begin to blow, college move-in creeps up closer and closer. Many students are returning to their own stomping grounds here at Rowan University. However, much of the student body comprises first-year students heading into the unknown as they begin their higher education careers. Outside of books and other stationery, there are many essential items for a first-year student to pack when moving into the residence halls on campus for the first time. So here’s a guide on what to bring on your way to campus to drop off your student.
Mattress topper: will make your student’s bed extremely comfortable and a more expensive one is definitely worth the splurge since it can last multiple years of living in student housing.
Organizers: whether this is bins, or a cubicle storage shelf unit, some form of organization is a must. It helps to keep the room decluttered and allows you to make room for the stuff you own and the new stuff you will possess as the semester progresses.
Bedside caddy: these can act as a sort of nightstand, and allow everything someone needs to be at arm’s reach while in bed.
Ottoman: allows for more storage space and can be used as a seat and boost onto raised beds.
Over the door mirror: perfect for getting ready for class.
Laundry backpack or laundry basket with wheels: Limits the heaviness of carrying clothes to laundry rooms, especially for those students whose rooms may be farther away from laundry rooms.
Biodegradable paper plates and silverware: while having plastic eatery works, having some that can be tossed after use is good for nights when you don’t feel like doing any dishes.
Desk lamp with USB: these lamps are affordable and allow for an extra charge for your phone or laptop.
Decor: helps bring the room together and makes it really feel like a home.
Over the shower caddy (for sharing with a suite): allows for storage in the bathroom and keeps items organized.
Shower caddy (personal items): easy to carry and allows for bathroom items to stay organized so nothing gets left behind during trips to the bathroom to shower.
Power strips: allows for more use of electrical items in dorms which usually have limited outlets. Pro tip: extension cords are against the rules, leave those at home.
Window fan: for dorms without air-conditioning this allows more airflow to beat the September heat (it doesn’t stay really hot in the dorms after that).
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Story by: Asiya Robinson, junior writing arts major
