Pack Light: Essentials Every HBCU Freshman Needs 

August is around the corner, which means planning for move-in day has begun! Do you feel overwhelmed or feel like you’re forgetting something? Use this list as a guide to help you figure out what you need!

Dorm Life 

• Bedding – As a freshman, you will most likely be staying in a dorm with a Twin XL sized bed. Make sure to have at least 2-3 sets of sheets so that way you aren’t making constant trips to the laundry room. I also recommend getting a mattress topper or cover because those mattresses can be a little firm on your back if you aren’t used to it. Invest in a good quality blanket too. You never know if your building gets cold at night or if you have a roommate that’s always hot. 
• Room Essentials – The lighting in the dorms is usually limited. Since the rooms normally come with desks, make sure to purchase a lamp that fits the space, your aesthetic, and bright enough for your liking. I personally had LED lights to set the vibe for my room. However, it can easily rip the paint off the walls, which can lead to a possible fine from your Resident Assistant (RA). Other things like a trashcan, laundry hamper, hangers, and pillows may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s often forgotten about until the day of. On the contrary to what I mentioned earlier, most HBCU dorms don’t have the best AC units, so grabbing a small room fan won’t hurt either. 
• Snack & Kitchen Items – Most dorms don’t come with a stove to cook meals. Depending on the school, some offer microwaves and mini fridges for rent, while others already have it included in the room. I’ve even seen people bring air fryers on campus, but they often had to hide it when room checks occurred since it was considered a safety hazard. Instead of the cute, tumbler cups and plates, opt for paper products that you can easily throw away since you won’t have access to a kitchen sink. It’s also best to get snacks that won’t necessarily go bad or stink up the room. The last thing you want is a fruit fly infested room because you forgot to throw out your old cotton candy grapes in the fridge .. trust me, I’ve been there.

Toiletries & Personal Care

• Bathroom Necessities – Shower shoes are a MUST, especially if you are in communal style living and have to share the bathroom with more than one person. Having a robe to cover up and a shower caddy to transport your items from your room to the bathroom is definitely a necessity. Even the little things like a toothbrush holder, soap case, and shower caps will make a huge difference & keep the small items from being contaminated with other germs. Just like the sheets, it’s also great to have 3 or more sets of towels and washcloths so you can change them out as frequently as you wish.
• Personal Items – Unless you have a store near campus, I found it easier to already bring my usual hygiene items on campus. Aside from lotion, deodorant, and feminine products, I made sure to already have detergent, dryer sheets, hair products, and other items to eliminate any major store hauls during move-in day. Medicine is also a huge thing that many people forget! Aside from prescription medication, it’s always great to have allergy, headache, and stomach medicine on deck. A first aid kit doesn’t hurt either. 

Clothing Must-Haves 

• Occasions – Now we all know it’s “drip or drown” at HBCUs. But it’s important that you bring clothes that aren’t just for looking good outside or in the cafe. Some classes might require you to dress professionally, or you might have to attend an event where they require business casual attire. Regardless, it’s always good to pack a few dress pants and shirts, a suit, or a dress that stops at the knees or lower. Save the crop tops and wife beaters for the weekend. 
• Shoes – If your campus is big, it’s crucial to have a pair of shoes that you feel comfortable walking in. A “beater shoe” that you don’t really care about works best, especially in rain or shine. To match your business clothes, don’t forget to pack a pair of dress shoes or heels to look cohesive.
• Outerwear – Get an umbrella! The worst thing ever is having to walk to class in the rain with nothing but a hood on your head. Having a nice jacket or coat is important too because after Homecoming, the weather will definitely start to drop. 

Miscellaneous Items 

• Decorations – I made sure that my room felt like my home away from home. I put up pictures of my family and friends to remind me that I have people back home who are proud of me. Don’t be scared to go all out, down to matching rugs and curtains! Remember, this will be your safe space for 9 months, so you might as well decorate to your liking. 
• Documents – Believe it or not, you will most likely need more than just your driver’s license or ID when you come to campus. Make sure to have insurance cards on deck for unexpected visits, your debit and credit cards, and even another form of identification, like a passport or social security card, in case you want to take on a part-time job. 
• Storage – This might already be a given, but invest in storage containers! Not only did it make the moving process easy, but I was able to store my clothes in there when my closet became too full.