Insight on Move-In Preparations: Perspectives from CWRU Resident Assistants
As the exciting day of college move-in approaches, incoming students at Clarke Tower and other residences are encouraged to prepare thoughtfully and follow some helpful tips to ensure a smooth transition.
Essential Packing List
To make the most of limited dorm space, it's advisable to pack only essential items, as students will accumulate more belongings during their time at college. Key items to pack include bedding, bathroom essentials, storage and organization solutions, laundry supplies, kitchen items, tech and documents, comfort and decor items, and personal touches.
Recommended Items to Pack
- Bedding: Twin XL sheets (2 sets), comforter or duvet, pillows (2+), mattress protector, and pillowcases.
- Bathroom essentials: Shower caddy, shower shoes/flip flops, bath towels (2–3), hand towels, washcloths, toiletry bag, and bathrobe.
- Storage and organization: Clothes hangers, over-the-door organizer, under-sink storage drawers, small vacuum or dustpan, and laundry basket or bag.
- Laundry supplies: Detergent, stain remover pen, dryer sheets/balls, quarters or laundry card, lint roller, and mesh delicates bag.
- Kitchen items: Mini fridge and microwave (if allowed), reusable dishes and utensils, snacks, dish soap, sponge, and paper towels.
- Tech and documents: Laptop/tablet, phone, chargers, headphones, backup batteries, surge protector or extension cord, school ID, driver’s license/passport, and health insurance card.
- Comfort and decor: Desk lamp, portable fan, area rug, corkboard, and some personal touches to make the space homey.
What to Leave Behind
To avoid bringing bulky furniture, large appliances (unless permitted), prohibited items such as candles, space heaters, full-size refrigerators, or alcoholic beverages, and excessive clothing or kitchenware not allowed in dorms.
Tips for Move-In Day
- Pack a "first night" bag with essentials like a set of sheets, toiletries, and a change of clothes for immediate use.
- Label items clearly for easy unpacking and organization.
- Check school-specific policies about what’s provided and what’s allowed to avoid bringing redundant or banned items.
- Bring cleaning supplies to tidy up the dorm before or after moving in.
- Stay organized by using storage solutions that maximize small dorm spaces, such as under-bed bins and hanging organizers.
- Be flexible and maintain a positive attitude to adapt to shared living situations.
Expert Advice
- Kianna Verdugo suggests bringing shower shoes and packing a set of bedding and towels for each laundry day.
- McKenzie Roman advises coordinating with roommates about what items each will bring and bringing packing tape and scissors.
- Karlo's top packing tip is to buy longer extension cords than needed.
- Chiu's top packing tip is to bring personal medicine, honey, and other comfort items from home.
- Abigail Karlo advises that it's okay to not know something and to ask for help.
- To make a great first impression with a roommate and floormates, students can say yes to invitations, be friendly, find common ground, and be respectful of shared spaces.
- A student hired a moving company to transport their belongings from a U-Haul to a residence hall, causing concern about fitting everything in the room.
- Joanna Chiu suggests taking a deep breath before move-in day, as there is a team ready to help.
- Students are encouraged to initiate conversations, ask intentional questions, and share about themselves during Orientation Week.
Safety and Reminders
- Students are advised to keep their Case ID or any other keys/keycards on them at all times during move-in to avoid getting locked out.
- A reminder to students to have a safe trip to Cleveland for move-in.
By following these tips and packing wisely, incoming students can ensure a smooth and successful move-in experience. Move-in for incoming students at the college will take place on Aug. 17-18. Enjoy the journey, and welcome to college life!
- To create a comfortable and homely lifestyle in the dorm, consider packing decor items such as a desk lamp, area rug, corkboard, and personal touches. (education-and-self-development)
- For a well-rounded college experience, take advantage of opportunities for education-and-self-development, such as making new friends, participating in orientation activities, and learning to live independently. (lifestyle)
