What to bring to college

Dorm

The following is a college preparation guide for those who will be living in a dorm at college. The information is great, free, and unbiased. Enjoy it and tell a friend if you find it helpful.

I mean really, is that too much to ask that you tell a friend?? You have friends don't you? There you go... open that email and send a quick note about us (Yeah, we're pretty shameless). Thanks in advance, we appreciate it.

FOR RESIDENCE LIFE PROFESSIONALS
We know that you hate the word "dorm", but unfortunately search engines like Google, Yahoo, and MSN don't have a preference. Since we think all of you residence life professionals are just swell we've decided to cut you some slack and set the record straight.
HERE GOES......
A dormitory or dorm is a place where a person sleeps, and nothing else. A RESIDENCE HALL is a community where students reside that promotes learning and higher education.
Be Forewarned........
If you EVER want to lose a limb (or at the very least an eye) make the mistake of telling a residence life professional that they work in a DORM.

Now that we have the formalities out of the way, and we have justified our use of the dirty "D" word. Enjoy the guide. And remember, it's not THAT hard to email a friend who might also find the information useful. I mean really, help us out here!

Preface

• College Orientation

  1. Participate in the activities.
  2. Pack lightly for orientation.
  3. Don't sweat it if you can't go.

• Shopping For College

  1. Start shopping early, but not too early.
  2. Get seasonal items as soon as possible.
  3. Know the layout of your room.
  4. Know What You Can't Bring.
  5. Pool expenses with your roommate(s).
  6. Do your school shopping together.
  7. If possible, buy in bulk.
  8. Shop in a group.
  9. Don't eat your money!
  10. Get everything before you get to school.
  11. What About Books?

What to Bring to College

What to Bring to College Quick List

What NOT to Bring to College

• Computers - Which one is right for you?

  1. Bringing a computer if you have the option.
  2. Get a computer that is appropriate for your studies.
  3. Your school may require you to bring a computer.
  4. Get a docking station for your laptop.
  5. Advantages of a portable computer (PCs)
  6. Advantages of a laptop computer

• Computers - Which one is right for you?

  1. Bringing a computer if you have the option.
  2. Get a computer that is appropriate for your studies.
  3. Your school may require you to bring a computer.
  4. Get a docking station for your laptop.
  5. Advantages of a portable computer (PCs)
  6. Advantages of a laptop computer

• For Those Going Far From Home

  1. Don't put all your focus on flying or driving.
  2. Only take with you what you can't buy at school.
  3. Shopping online can save time and money.
  4. Leave most of your stuff at school on breaks.
  5. Arrange an earlier move-in date.

• College Move-In Day

  1. You will not be the only one moving in.
  2. Have everything done the night before.
  3. First come first serve!
  4. Teamwork is the key.
  5. Get to the bookstore quickly.
  6. Save your receipts.
  7. Don't Pay For Someone Else's Mistake.
  8. Get to know Your Resident Advisor.
  9. Get familiar with your new surroundings.

• Roommate Relations and Situations

  1. Avoid rooming with a friend.
  2. Be honest on the roommate placement form.
  3. Don't go by first impressions.
  4. Compromising is very important.
  5. Keep the noise to a minimum in the morning.
  6. Talk with your roommate about problems.
  7. Seek help if you and your roommate clash.

• The Car Situation

  1. Leave your car at home if you're not allowed to have cars.
  2. It's not always necessary to have a car on campus.
  3. Your school has no problem towing your car.

• Keeping In Touch For Cheap

  1. Save with a cellular phone.
  2. Get an "800" number at home.
  3. Calling cards are always a safe bet.

• Avoiding Freshmen Year Pitfalls

  1. Stay at school as much as possible.
  2. Avoid getting a job freshmen year.
  3. Partying is an important topic to discuss.
  4. Be smart with your money.
  5. You're fresh meat for credit card companies.

• Random Hints

  1. Fighting For The Shower
  2. Toothpaste?
  3. Bring spare eyeglasses, contacts, or prescription drugs
  4. Don't waste your money on shower curtains.
  5. Vacuuming is always a chore.