With move-out on the horizon, it has become increasingly clear to me that I brought too much stuff to college at the beginning of the year. Way. Too. Much. This happens to the best of us, especially as freshmen, when the excitement of living on our own for the first time hits us like a whimsical brick, and we think to ourselves- “well, yes, of course I need a bean bag chair and 3 ice trays.” I personally fell victim to this mindset, and now I am burdened with bags upon bags of things I never used, that I will inevitably have to spend hours hauling out of my third floor single. If you are an incoming freshman, I know it might seem tempting to buy everything stocked in Target’s dorm section, but I am here to tell you that this is a horrible idea. In an attempt to protect future first-years from making the same overpacking mistakes I made, I have compiled a list of things you should definitely bring to college, a list of things you might want to bring, and a list of things you should avoid.
NECESSITIES
Storage boxes: Storage boxes are the key to staying organized in your space. Most beds in Oberlin dorms will have a lot of room underneath, especially if you choose to loft. Perfect way to keep clutter minimal and use space wisely.
Lamps/lights: I’m the kind of person who cannot stand “the big light”, especially at night. If you want something a little less harsh, I’d opt for at least one lamp. Personally, I love mood lighting, so I have a couple different lamps and LED lights around my room, but really you only need one or two depending on personal preference.
A good fan: Many Oberlin dorms have air conditioning; many Oberlin dorms do not. That’s the beauty of attending a historic liberal arts college. Even if you are lucky enough to get placed in a dorm with AC, it can be a gamble especially in the winter. If you are someone who runs warm especially when you sleep, get a fan.
Posters and other decorations: Especially if you are a first year living on your own for the first time, it is extremely important to decorate your room in a way that makes you feel at home. Even if it’s just a couple posters or some Funko Pops, making your space your own can help ease the transition from home living to dorm living.
DEPENDS…
A speaker: Not a necessity if you’re not a big music person (but if you’re coming to Oberlin, I bet you are). Still, you might prefer to use headphones or earbuds, especially if you have a roommate. It always comes in handy though if you have friends over on the weekends.
A chair: Oberlin will provide you with a chair in addition to your desk, so it isn’t something you have to get if you don’t think you will use it. Like the speaker, it’s always nice to have if you have guests over. Most likely though, your friends will be fine on the floor, so I wouldn’t waste space on something so large and heavy (will make move-out 10x harder).
Dishes and reusable cutlery: Obies like to reduce waste, that’s just a fact. So, many of us prefer to use reusable dishware as opposed to paper plates and disposable utensils. Although you might find yourself making meals at the beginning of the year, you will undoubtedly spend more time eating at the various dining halls on campus. I’d suggest bringing at least two bowls and maybe a plate, but no need to acquire a whole collection.
BIG NOs
TV: This one might be controversial, but especially if you have a single, you do not need a TV in your dorm. You will maybe use it for a couple months until you realize your laptop is just as good for watching movies.
Throw pillows: In addition to your regular pillows, you do not need much else. Personally, I have one throw pillow, and sometimes I don’t even use it and it ends up exiled to the floor. Good for propping yourself up when you inevitably write essays in bed, but you really don’t need more than one.
A cute, tiny trashcan: I know they are tempting, but do not waste your money on a tiny, aesthetically pleasing trashcan. You will end up having to take it out 3 times a week because it can’t withstand more than 15 wrappers and a single cardboard box. Instead, get a larger trashcan (ideally with a lid to avoid bad smells). Even though it takes up more space, it is 10x more efficient than the minis you find at TJ max.
