First Year

​

1. Toilet Paper. Sounds stupid, and no matter how annoying it is flushing literal money down the toilet, I have to admit: it is rather necessary. And you will have wished you brought it when you’re stranded on the John and need your new roommate’s help. If you forget some, at least you’ll make a great first impression.

2. A Fan/Humidifier: I didn’t pick up on this one until the end of my last semester. But if you’re moving to a new climate, these items should be mandatory! (Especially because the thermostat is often shared with another roommate - and the controls might just be in their room and not yours!)

3. Batteries/Light Bulbs: they don’t seem like a necessary item until that rare occasion happens when the lamp stops working and you’re sitting alone in the dark typing away at your final. Save the stress. BRING THEM.

4. Dinnerware: At most, you’ll probably be bringing a fridge/microwave to your dorm or suite. While most students don’t forget about this, many forget about bringing plates to put the microwavable food on. Instead of waiting to buy these items at the overpriced city Target, pack them!

5. Shower shoes: If you want to avoid Athlete’s Foot, think about it. Communal Showers are gross, bottom line.

6. Extra pillows: College is crazy because you never know what’s going to happen. At 3am, it’s normal for the boys down the hall to knock on the door simply to say hi. Friends stop by and friends stay, whether it was planned or not. Better to be prepared for visitors!

7. Towels: Most students don’t forget about bath towels, but rags, hand towels, dish towels, and some extras are always nice! (Because let’s be honest: you won’t be doing laundry every single week.)

8. Band-aids: No matter how clumsy or not you are, accidents happen. (Especially while you’re doing college-kid activities.) Be prepared, and be the mom of the suite - everyone will thank you later.

9. Scissors/Tape: No, you’re not in elementary school anymore, but you do still need to work on art projects. Emerson is a place that encourages creativity - so don’t leave your creativity at home!

Something to remind you of home. Being away from home will be hard, despite how eager you are to slip away. College will become your new home, and your roommates will become your new family, but your heart will always have a place to return to even after graduation. So keep home close, especially to your heart while you’re away.