5 Tips for things to take into the Residence Halls at College

TOWSON, Md. - All is quiet on the campus of Goucher College, but soon it will be filled with students.  Many of them will attend college for the first time.

Kathleen Hearl, a senior, at Goucher is experienced on the college scene.

"It's nice to come to college and be prepared to have your feet on the ground otherwise you will come in and be nervous. You might not know what to do so having some sort of preparation is really helpful," said Hearl.

The residence hall is where many college students spend most of their time.  The rooms are not really big, which means students can't bring too many items.

Here is a list of five must haves in the residence halls.

First, bring a personal item like a toy or stuffed animal to help relieve stress.

Second, bring shower shoes and a shower caddy to carry your toiletries to the bathroom.

Third, bring a fun board game to play with other people in the residence hall.

Fourth, discuss with your roommate a small refrigerator for drinks and snacks.

And finally, bring a desk lamp for late night studying.

"With a personal item, it's really nice to have because you are going into a new environment. You are probably going to be a little homesick. The rain boots that's a must because there has been many times I am walking to class and my pants get soaked because I didn't have rain boots," said Hearl.

Jackson Gilman-Forlini is a Junior at Goucher. He says a good shower caddy is helpful.

"You are moving between your room and your bathroom and you need to take your stuff with you," said Jackson Gilman-Forlini.

The goal here is for students to be comfortable in the residence halls.

"This is going to be your home for at least a year so you want to make sure you feel comfortable in it," said Kia Kuresman, Director of New Student Programs at Goucher College.

While you want to be comfortable in your new room, stay within reason.

"Don't go overboard initially. Once you get here you will start to realize what you need in the first couple of weeks, maybe pack light initially and add to that as you go on," said Jackson Gilman-Forlini

Administrators say it's also a good idea to talk to your roommate to figure out what to bring as well so you don't double up on items.

Also don't forget linens, blankets and appropriate clothing like rain gear.