What to take to college. (and what to leave at home.)

First thing you should do is call your roommate and coordinate what each of you is going to bring. There is nothing worse than having two refrigerators but no TV or, even worse, two of everything!

Here is a list of things that will likely come in handy during the year. Not all of them are a must, but they all turn out to be pretty useful.  Television  DVD player (for those nights you can't watch TV because you are studying)  Microwave  Refrigerator (compact size)  Mp3 player with GOOD earbuds or head phones

 Computer (if available)  Three prong extension cords  Power strip/surge protector  Wii, Xbox, etc  Sports equipment (football, volleyball, basketball, and any other type of ball)

 Desk Lamp  Alarm Clock – do not rely solely on your cell phone  Laundry bag (or basket)  Laundry soap  Laundry money (ask mom for her quarters)  Stain remover - just in case  Sewing kit (needles and thread or safety pins)

 Eating utensils (preferably plastic)  Cups and plates - plastic or paper (washing dishes in a community bathroom isn't fun)  Bedding (bring a good blanket because it gets cold in the residence halls sometimes)  Anything to decorate your room (photos/posters)  Iron and Small ironing board  Organizer or planner (calendar) – do not rely solely on your cell phone or an electronic organizer, have a paper backup

 Backpack - and you'll learn to carry it on both shoulders!  College clothes (leave the high school T-shirts and letter jackets at home)  Bike and bike lock  Fan  Bath towels, soaps, robe, etc.  Can-opener

 First aid kit  Band aids  Tylenol or pain reliever  Personal hygiene items (toothpaste, deodorant, etc...)  Shower shoes  Umbrella  Pictures of family and friends  Your insurance card/health insurance information  extra cell phone battery – or at least have your phone in your name so you can authorize service on it by yourself

More importantly, what you should leave at home!!!  Pets (Fish are usually okay)  High school memorabilia  Full size refrigerator (rooms are only so big)  Fire arms  Expensive clothing and jewelry (This is the real world, theft does occur)  Off season clothes (your closets are only so big)