6 Unexpected Things to Pack for Your First Year at College
SHU’s guide to preparing students for residence hall life with insight, tips and essential items
Starting off at college comes with a lot of moving parts, and it can often feel overwhelming trying to prepare for everything. Figuring out what is necessary compared to what is just taking up space is not always easy. We’ve rounded up some of the unexpected (but super helpful) things to pack that you might not think about bringing. Our goal is to help you start your next four years off right by making sure you're prepared for any obstacle that comes your way.
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Register Now1. Rain Jacket & Umbrella
Living on campus means you will be walking just about everywhere, whether to class, the dining hall, gym, library or a friend's residence hall. Walking outside will be a regular part of your routine, and you should be prepared to bring your umbrella with you. Even though walking to most of the buildings at Sacred Heart only takes about five- to 10 minutes, getting caught in the rain can leave you soaked. To avoid sitting through a lecture in wet clothes with a damp backpack, pack an umbrella and rain jacket. Regardless of whether you’re on your way to an early class or a late-night study session, bringing an umbrella and staying dry can make your whole day a lot more comfortable.
2. Personalized Med Kit
Creating a personalized med kit is a really smart thing to do to get ready for your first year of college. You’ll want to bring your home medicine cabinet with you to help you stay well. Be sure to pack drugstore medications that can help aid any emergency. It’s also a good idea to keep other medical supplies in your kit such as a thermometer, bandages, antibacterial ointment and aspirin. These products will come in handy. And remember, SHU’s health services is always available to help you get better no matter what you pack.
3. Shower Caddy
You will likely share a bathroom with roommates, and a shower caddy will be crucial. Having all your toiletries in one easy-to-carry organizer makes trips to and from the shower quick and hassle-free. A shower caddy can keep your shampoo, body wash, razor, toothbrush, shower shoes and any other products you need all in one place. This small item makes a big difference in keeping your routine smooth and your space neat.
4. Stain Remover
Spills, stains and messes are pretty much inevitable and can add to your already busy schedule. There’s one solution that is simple and effective but often forgotten. Stain remover! Whether it be a stain stick you always keep in your backpack or a spray that you use with your detergent, having a stain remover on hand will save your clothes from permanent marks. It's one of those items that you don't think about until you need it, but when the time comes, you'll be glad you have it.
5. Fan/Air Dehumidifier
Transitioning to a residence hall with a new roommate can mean learning how to live comfortably with someone who may have a different routine or temperature preferences than you. Bringing in a fan or an air dehumidifier can ensure your personal comfort while avoiding conflicts over what temperature to set in the room. Whether it’s to circulate air on warmer days, reduce post-shower humidity or even just ensure a relaxing environment to sleep before a big exam, having something on hand to combat those issues helps ensure you and your roommate stay comfortable in a shared space.
6. Power Strip
Staying in a residence hall often means dealing with a limited number of outlets. As a student, you will have several devices that need to stay charged, such as your phone, laptop and tablet. You may also have other essentials like a mini fridge, microwave or lamp. To avoid running out of plug space or relying on your roommate’s outlets, be sure to pack a power strip to ensure you have enough room to charge all your devices and help keep your space organized and functional.
Leaving home, entering a new school and moving into your first residence hall is exciting, but it can also be a big adjustment. Packing smart means thinking beyond the basics and considering the small, practical items that can make a huge difference in your daily routine. From keeping dry on rainy days to making sure your devices stay charged and your space stays comfortable, these unexpected must-haves will help you feel more prepared, more at home and more focused on making the most of your college experience. Keep reading for more of SHU’s packing suggestions!
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