Moving into a dorm is terrifying in and of itself: You're cramming all your stuff into a tiny room with another person whom you've likely never met. On top of it all, you've probably never been on your own before. How can you prepare for the next four years of your life if you don't have everything you need? Don't worry. We've been there and know all of the overlooked things you should consider putting in your suitcase.
EXTRA PENCILS AND PENS
Seems obvious, right? Perhaps, but I can't count the number of times I've forgotten to bring a pen to class. Always keep extras in your backpack; your classmates will thank you.
READING LIGHTIf you're an avid night reader or just a night owl, get a reading light; it will keep the peace between you and your early-to-bed roommate.
NOISE-CANCELING HEADPHONESA nice pair of headphones or earbuds are probably the most important item you'll need. You'll use them walking to class, on the bus, while studying, in your dorm room (especially if your roommate is annoying, which is definitely a possibility), everywhere.
FIRST AID KITYou're clumsier than you think.
SPONGE AND DISH SOAPDo the environment (and your wallet) a favor and forgo plastic or paper plates and utensils. Invest in reusable plates and utensils and wash them with a sponge and dish soap. Don't be lazy.
WEEKEND BAGWeekend trips are fun.
HAWAIIAN SHIRT OR LEITacky? Yeah. But I promise you'll go to a Hawaiian-themed party. When in Rome ...
STAIN REMOVER PENSpill coffee on your favorite T-shirt in a two-hundred-person lecture hall? No problem. Tide-to-go or any other stain remover pen will save you a trip to the laundry room. You should still do laundry at least every two weeks, though.
EAR PLUGS AND EYE MASKThe former, in case you have a loud roommate. The latter, if you like to sleep in.
COLD MEDICATIONUnless you have the immune system of Deadpool, you're going to get the flu and/or a bad cold nearly every year. If you're too tired/sick/vomit-y to walk to the campus health center, a couple sips or tablets of Dayquil (or whatever you prefer) can take the edge off. (Disclaimer: I'm not a doctor; read the bottle before using.) That being said, you should definitely try to get to a doctor as soon as flu-like symptoms arise: Tamiflu can literally be a lifesaver.
