(written by Val, College Outreach Specialist at the Center for College Planning)

Hi bloggers,

July is here, and for those of you heading off to college in the fall, the days are numbered before you leave.  Some of you may already have started collecting the essentials that you will need for campus living (if you are choosing to live on campus), and some of you may be wondering what these “essentials” actually are.  To help, I have compiled a list of items that you may consider bringing with you as well as items that you will want to leave at home.  You may want to consult with your roommate (if you have one) on some of the larger items...you probably do not need or want two televisions in your room!

Items to Bring:

• shower shoes, towels, sheets (twin, extra long), bedding, portable shower caddie, iron (with automatic shut-off), drying rack, television, mini-fridge (if the school allows one), alarm clock, toiletries, phone/answering machine, quarters (for laundry if the machines still require them), and pictures from home

Items to Leave at Home:

• microwaves, hot plates, bed risers, pets, candles, incense, alcohol (depending on age and campus policy), cooking appliances, grills and propane, curling irons without an automatic shut-off and air-conditioners

By no means is this list comprehensive, particularly the list of items not to bring to school.  Read through the school’s policy and adhere to whatever rules they have, or risk having your items confiscated.  Also know that sometimes policies can change from year to year.  During my freshman year of college, blow-up or inflatable chairs were allowed in the dorms.  We loved them; they were light-weight and easy to deflate if we needed more floor space for guests, etc.  Sadly, when I arrived at school to begin my sophomore year I was informed that inflatable furniture was considered a fire hazard and no longer allowed in our rooms.  I kept them deflated and brought them home during the first break we had; I did not want to risk having them taken from me and they made a fun addition to my bedroom at home!  Moral of the story: know that colleges have the right to amend their policies and try to stay as up-to-date as possible.

What other items am I missing?  Is there anything that you know you would either love to have, or would not be allowed to bring to college with you?

Happy shopping,
Val