My roommate and I started brainstorming a list of things that would be useful in college that weren’t on the What To Bring list. I mean, I came pretty prepared (I’m the oldest kid in my family, so my parents and I did the best we could in terms of packing), but I soon realized I was still lacking a few things. Hope this helps!
1. Watch—An alarm clock is a must (so you don’t oversleep and miss class), and a watch is a nice addition. It’s good to know how much time you have until class starts while you’re stuck in traffic on the bus, or whenever. And FYI, Most of the lecture halls and some of the classrooms don’t have clocks.
2. LONG Ethernet cable—Most of the dorms don’t have wireless, unfortunately. And in case you’re on the side of the room WITHOUT the Ethernet port, you’ll want at least a 25-50 foot cable. Unless, of course, you don’t want internet access in your room.
3. Tissues – These are handy when you want something soft to sob into, or when you laugh until you cry. You also tend to go through a lot of them when you’re sick with a cold or have allergies. Just bring a box or two (or more!). They sure beat using the napkins from the dining hall.
4. Snacks—Make sure you bring a bunch of granola bars, cup noodles, cereal, or whatever snacks and comfort foods you enjoy eating. In the event that you miss breakfast, it’ll be nice to have something to munch on while you’re heading to class. Oh, chocolate is always good. J
5. Water filter, Bottled water, Water bottles—In case you don’t like the taste of fountain water, a water filter and a case of bottled water will definitely come in handy. Those really cool metallic water bottles are also nice to have on hand, so you can help save the environment. Yeah, if you don’t know already, Rutgers is really big on recycling. Whooo.
6. Utensils—You never know when you’ll end up eating in your room instead of the dining hall. Who knows? Plastic spoons, forks, knives, cups, and other things will come in handy.
7. Folders/Binders/School Supplies—Well duh, right? We’re going to school here…But make sure you bring enough. At least one notebook and folder for each class might be good, so you can keep your notes and loose papers organized. Blank paper for printing (if you bring your own printer), markers, colored pencils, and other school supplies might come in handy as well.
8. Calendar—Some of the older students suggested having two calendar/planners: one planner to write down daily assignments, and a big calendar to write down major dates (projects, exams, meetings). I need to find a calendar soon to keep track of things…there are way too many events going on around here.
9. Laundry Hamper and Detergent—You’ll need these to carry your laundry downstairs to the basement and back up when you’re finished. And of course, don’t forget the detergent. It’s very important. I’ve heard liquid laundry detergent is better, so that’s what I’ve got right now…
10. Tools—You might need these sometime. Pliers, screwdrivers, wire clippers, and maybe a Swiss Flash USB Knife. I hear it's something worth asking Santa for... but obviously, use your tools wisely.
11. Storage containers—These can go under your bed or wherever. It’s definitely helpful if you need to organize your things.
12. Favorite books/stuffed animals—Even though you’re at college, you’d probably like some reminders of home and your childhood. No it’s not embarrassing. I brought a bunch of books (that I probably won’t have time to read any time soon but I will get there eventually!), and my stuffed monkey is sitting on my bed. It wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t bring these things.
13. Good walking shoes—Even with the convenience of buses, you will end up doing quite a bit of walking in college, if only from the bus stop to the building across the street. Sturdy and comfortable shoes are great—bring a pair or two.
14. Miscellaneous—Clorox wipes or some sort of wet wipes are great to have around. If you have dust allergies, it’s probably a good idea to wipe up the dust on the windowsills if you haven’t already…
This list is getting pretty long, and I think that’s about it. You will accumulate a lot of t-shirts and pens and papers, so try not to bring too much. Just don’t forget your sense of humor, and remember to be yourself!
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