Chances are, you can’t pack up your entire bedroom and bring it along for the school year. So what do you bring when you move into the residence halls? Here are some tips on what you may need and how to personalize your space.
Bedding Necessities
This includes your silkiest sheets, colored bedspread and favorite pillows. A simple denim comforter is the perfect choice for a guy’s bed. It’s neutral, easy to clean and holds up well to wear and tear.
A mattress pad is also a good way to go — not only does it protect the life of a mattress, but it also instills good hygiene. These cushiony washable toppers also provide extra comfort to combat aches and pains that could be caused by restless sleep or stress.
Kitchen Supplies
NU Clue: The Mabee Dining Hall gives students and staff the option of either eating in the cafeteria or boxing up meals to go.
Microwaves are a must-have, especially if you enjoy your hot chocolate with the tiny marshmallows during those colder months. Plus, you can save a few trips to Mabee by heating up those late-night hot wings or that early morning Pop-Tart in the comfort of your own room.
Mini fridges can help you save money by keeping food fresh for longer, thus saving more of those tasty meals and treats. Mabee isn’t open 24/7, but stocking your fridge with snacks gives you access to favorite foods no matter what time of day or night.
If you’d rather not eat your dinner straight from Styrofoam, you may want to consider getting a few microwave-safe dishes or bowls, or some paper plate and bowl options. Plastic forks, spoons and knives are also cheap necessities for stocking your kitchen area.
Hand towels, hand and dish soap not only keep your sink and kitchen area clean but help you stay healthy, too. Slips and spills may happen more often than you think, so it’s beneficial to have paper towels or extra napkins on hand as well.
Bathroom Needs
Be sure to bring at least one or two towels for showering purposes, along with shampoo, conditioner, a razor, deodorant, facial tissue and any other toiletries you may need.
Don’t forget your comb, hairbrush, toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss!
NU Clue: Bathroom rugs and trash cans are not provided.
Desk Items
In addition to typical school supplies, having your own stapler, scissors, tape and even a hole-punch will save time and trips to the library.
For additional light during study time, try using a desk lamp — it’s better for your eyes, plus you won’t keep your roommate up by turning on the overhead light.
Living Space
A trash can lets you keep your living space trash-free — and if you don’t mind them filling up a little faster — plastic grocery store bags can double as cheap trash bags.
Closet Area
Bring hangers to help keep your favorite outfits presentable and easily accessible.
Make sure you have a laundry basket to keep dirty clothes off the floor throughout the week. You’ll thank yourself for putting that one extra stressor to the side.
Room Decor
While these are not considered “must-haves,” it’s important to make this new living space your own. Try adding a flare of your own personal creativity with a few of these tips!
Hang favorite photos from home, band or sports team posters to decorate your closet door or wall space.
NU Clue: Blue painter’s tape and 3M Command Adhesive Strips© are the only tools allowed to help hang items on the walls.
Framed photos of family or friends are a great way to personalize your desk space while adding a little piece of home to your new room. Plus, photos promote nostalgia, which serves a positive function by improving mood and possibly mental health, according to Scientific American.
Try adding some colorful, printed or patterned throw pillows to your bed.
For a little extra light and ambiance, try using command strips to hang stringed lights in the corners of your room or in a fun pattern of your choice.
NU Clue: Incense, candles and oil lamps are not allowed in the residence halls.
Want to add an inviting or sweet-smelling scent to your room? Try flameless scented candles to add a boost of air freshener to your living area.
Comical or colorful refrigerator magnets can liven up a traditional black, white or silver mini fridge — plus it’s a great way to post important reminders to yourself or your roommate.
Be sure to check the Newman Move-In Guide for more tips on what to bring and what not to bring.
Full Newman move-in guide
Be sure to check the Newman University move-in guide for more tips on what to bring and what not to bring.
