There is nothing quite as stressful as planning for college.
The topic gets brought up what feels like a thousand times in one’s high school career. It’s an important thing to consider when planning a high school schedule and one of the immediate questions asked on every first day of school. As a senior, the topic becomes even more daunting — the beginning of the year is a blur of applications, acceptance letters and other forms to fill out.
Later in the year, just as it all begins to slow down, the stress of college rears its ugly head one last time: packing.
After experiencing the extraneous journey of packing for college three times with my siblings, I’ve devised the ultimate list of college essentials every senior should start planning for.
When my eldest sister went away for college, she only lasted one night before calling my mom. “It’s too hot,” she complained, even in New York. The AC was on, but, like every other college dorm, it was barely circulating. She ordered a fan by night three — just something small to facilitate circulation around the room — and I haven’t heard her complain about the temperature since.
One of the most important — and most often forgotten — things to bring to college is a long extension cord. A dorm room only has a handful of outlets, which will be needed to plug in technology, lamps and appliances. This makes 10-feet long extension cords all the more vital.
Storage bins and drawer organizers
Having space is a luxury college students cannot afford. Most of the time, one’s closet is small and shared; it only fits half the clothes brought. This makes storage bins and drawer organizers crucial to maximizing space, whether it’s for sock storage or blankets. Options suited for under the bed are optimal for conserving space.
The easiest way to make a dorm feel like home is to have proper lighting — not just the white fluorescents reminiscent of a hospital room. Getting a desk lamp for late-night work allows better flexibility with roommates, but lighting from fairy lights or LEDs helps just as much with improving the vibe of the room.
Every person I know that’s gone to college has complained about the bathroom. Whether sharing a communal bathroom with everyone or just three roommates, a mirror to oneself can be a rarity. This makes a mini mirror all the more important, especially when it comes within a makeup bag or is small enough to be put away.
