What kind of things should I pack for college?

Great question! I suppose the residence hall has given you a list of suggested items, if not check on their website or contact any admissions person that helped with your application. Often the college will provide a mentor (another experienced student) to help orient you on these sort of questions via email or social media - and possibly for help with adjusting to the campus once you get there, so maybe ask about that, too. Besides the obvious things (clothes, toothbrush), I'd take any specific study aids that you already have and are comfortable with, like a laptop computer or hand-held calculator (maybe your phone will do fine there. though). You'll probably want some personal music accessories, like a wireless Bluetooth speaker or headphones (essential for those times when you want to enjoy some music without disturbing your roomie or others). Remember, within most college cities, you can buy items that you'll need right there - including sheets and small furniture items - so it's best to travel light and "leave the kitchen sink" at home :-)

Hi Sabrina,

When I was in college, I stayed in a campus dorm my freshman year. The most important items I had were laptop locks (people steal expensive items, make sure to lock yours up), graphic calculator (depending on your major), shower shoes, shower caddy to carry your things, more than one set of sheets, laptop pillow to do work on your bed, a locker or bunker to store things in your closet that you don't want others to be able to get in, storage bins are great for keepings things organized and out of the way. Also a good pair of headphones in case your roommate is loud, trust me it happens :-) A sturdy hamper, possibly one that you can carry with a strap, and a small iron board that can fold out is helpful. Paper goods are always helpful if you're not into washing dishes after you eat and depending on the rules of your dorm, you may want a microwave or hotpot or electric tea kettle for times when you don't want to go to the cafeteria. Organization is key to beneficial studying so whatever you need to have on your desk, make sure you bring it with you. I preferred the cute organizational sets they have at Walmart or Target to add some color to my room. Also bring a great bed set to really make your room feel like a "temp" home. Also invest in frames to keep pictures of your friends and family in, it really helped when I got homesick. A magnetic board to hang on the door was a big thing when I went to college, people would write messages on them whenever you aren't home. Obviously everyone is different so adjust this list as needed, but these are the things I can think of that helped me get through my dorm life. Of course review the handout that is usually given about what you should bring as well. Dorm life was a huge part of college life for me so I hope you enjoy it. Good Luck