We are out for the summer too so that means no more new posts but be sure to check back in the fall 2013 for new content! 

Have a happy and productive summer vacation. 

Packing for College 101

By Lauren Precker 

Whoo hoo! The tests are done, the applications are submitted, and you have received your acceptance letter to the college of your choice.  Now all you think you need to do is throw a few things in a suitcase and move on to the next chapter of your life right? Wrong, you need to bring more than just your tooth brush and clothes.  All those little things that you take for granted for just being there at home (a stocked linen closet, laundry detergent, lamps, dishes, power cords, T.V., etc.) you are going to have to bring with you.  

The back to college/school shopping is major shopping season for chain retailers like Target, Wal-Mart, and Bed, Bath and Beyond.  Many retailers even create entire lines of products made just for dorm living which can provide one stop shopping, and don’t forget to check out the retailer’s website for and mail circulars for packing check lists as well as any additional coupons.  College is expensive enough, so save where you can! Whatever you decided to buy, make sure that it is well made. You want most of your items to stay with you for the next four years. 

Your dorm room is not only where you sleep but also where you study, hang out with your friends, and even eat,  and unless you weren’t lucky enough to snag a single room or spacious suite, you are going to have a roommate thrown into that mix as well.  With two (or sometimes more) people in a small area, space will be limited so you will need to get creative when it comes to storage.  Bed risers are great for creating more space under your bed for suitcases and larger Tupperware bins.  These can hold out of season clothing, or for fashionistas and fashionistos your extensive shoe collection. 

You are going to be spending a lot of time here, make it comfortable and let your personality shine.  Your dorm room will be a blank canvas. Be sure to bring posters and photos of friends and family to decorate the walls.  Oh! Don’t forget your traditional school supplies like printer toner/paper, pens, notebooks, and pens. These can sometimes be marked up in the campus bookstore. 

Then finally, the questions that all college freshmen ask, what is a Twin XL sheet and do I really need them? Yes, you do need them and there is actually difference from a standard twin sheet, so leave your old Superman/Barbie sheets your mom has tucked in the back of the linen closet at home.