Packing is a skill. Many people are good at it, and there are also plenty (me) who can struggle at times. Going to college is so exciting because you get to buy new bedding, posters, and really make this space cool and your own. Shopping is one of my favorite things to do, but I'll admit it, I can go a bit overboard. Sparkles, organization bins, and lights all distract me from what I really need, and I may have entered school a bit over prepared. Don't get me wrong, you definitely need a bunch of stuff to live with and make your room special, but there is a method to the madness that is packing that I will share with you.
Will you wear this?
If you are even thinking that, leave it in your room at home. Your first semester you don't have to bring everything in your closet (mistake #1 for me). Know that it is ok to leave behind some sweaters and boots because the best way to know if you are going to need it is if you are at school and think, "oh wow, how great would it be to have ___ right now?" That is the tell tale sign that you will actually use it.
Lights, Camera, Decorations!
Nobody loves decorations and personalizing a room more than I do, but you have to realize the space you have. Posters and tapestries are great because they make the room feel more homey and Christmas lights create a warm glow in the room that isn't as harsh as the normal light, but realize the space in your room. You don't want to buy 12 posters to hang on a wall that could only fit 4. Bringing a few to get started is nice and then you can always build it from there. Just because you didn't have it to start off with doesn't mean you can't go out and buy one if you want.
The Freshman 15 Food Factor
I'll be real with you right now, it is an actual thing, especially here. Since St. Mike's has the unlimited meal plan for almost everyone (sorry seniors!) you really don't need much as far as food goes in your room to make it by. Having a mini fridge and microwave is great in case you go out and have leftovers or for making a quick snack. I recommend bringing (or getting while you are here) just a basic set of utensils and a bowl and plate, it makes snacking so much easier. Your first year, you don't need too much heavy cooking equipment, so keep it light.
Traveling from far away
I'm from California, so I brought 2 large suitcases and a duffel full of my personal stuff/clothing from home and picked everything else up here. That worked out great, but I over estimated what I needed. A trash can when we already have one in the room, too many storage bins, and a lot of extra stuff ended up in my room. Luckily, our rooms are pretty big so I could fit everything fairly well, but I also had to keep my winter jackets and summer clothes with me all year round since it is hard to travel with them. Though I am envious of those whose rooms lack much "extra" and everything seems very clean, I realize that I also have probably double the clothes because I have to be prepared for that. If you are traveling from far away, you just have to know that you'll have to keep your suitcases and bins in your room, there isn't the option to take it home. Though it can take up extra space, it also works as extra storage, so try to utilize it as much as you can!
Pack well, don't stress, and we can't wait to have you here with us Class of 2018!
And make sure to check out our video to help you pack smart!
If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to comment! (If you are thinking it, most likely someone else is too!)
