Make a List
When you're getting ready to move, it's a good idea to make a list. In fact, you'll likely make several lists. You need to know what to bring, what you're leaving behind, what you'll need to buy when you get to school, and more. Having lists helps keep you organized and on track for before, during, and after your move. You can make your list on a piece of paper, on the computer, or even on your smartphone.
Make sure you know what you can't bring with you to college, such as appliances. Each school has a list of prohibited items, which you can get before you move.
Get to Know Your Roommate
Are you nervous about meeting and getting to know your new roommate? If your school gives you contact information for dorm mates before school starts, contact your roommate before you get to school. Remember, the person you'll be sharing your dorm with is just as nervous about sharing the space as you are. If you can't get in touch with your new roommate ahead of time, that's ok. When you meet, be friendly. Be willing to compromise on things like decorating the room and room rules.
Keep in mind that you don't have to be best friends with your roommate; you simply need to be able to get along.
Unpack Easily
Make your items easy to unpack, so you're not spending hours or days trying to get everything out and organized. Before you start unpacking, clean up your area. While it's likely already clean, it's a good idea to go over surfaces with a Clorox wipe or something similar to ensure that the room is ready for your stuff. Unpack the things you'll use most often first, and don't just pull everything out at once. Find a place for each item before you move on to the next to make the process as easy and quick as possible.
Pick Up Things You Need
Despite your best efforts, you'll probably forget a few things — or there may be some things you simply want to get new when you're at school. Make a list of what you need before you go shopping to make the trip easy and ensure that you don't have to go shopping five times in the first few days. Head to a local grocery store, pharmacy, or department store to get what you need. Walmart is a good option for many college students because it offers just about anything they could want at great prices.
Moving into your first dorm doesn't have to be as daunting as it seems. Plan ahead to make the move easier and less stressful. When you're prepared, the beginning of the new school year goes a lot better.
Image via Flickr by naiaraback1
