This is it, seniors. AP testing, finals and then BOOM, graduation. Time for freedom! Time for independence! Time to get out in the world and see what life is like away from home. For those of you pursuing a college farther than a commute away, living in the dorms at the school of your choice is an option you may be interested in. Whether it’s miles, a couple hours or a few states away, there are some universal items that may help the transition from Tracy home to future college a tad easier. Don’t forget these helpful tips as you pack your bags and move on out! 

Necessities: 

• Power strip with multiple outlets 
• Backup cell phone charger
• Backup laptop chargers 
• Desk lamp 
• Stain remover 
• Cups, plates and utensils (you will definitely want to eat in your room) 

• Multiple bedsheets (beds tend to be extra-long twin beds) 
• Clothes only worn during that season (dorm closet space is limited) 
• Headphones 
• Comfortable shoes 
• Slippers 
• Shower shoes/flip flops 

• Bath towels and beach towels 
• Basic hygiene items: shampoo, conditioner, body soap, razors, face wash, hair product, hair brushes, deodorant, perfume/cologne, toothbrush, toothpaste and makeup 
• Shower caddy 
• Crates for storage 

• Sewing kit, scissors and safety pins 
• Small first aid kit 
• Calendar 
• Basic office supplies: post its, paper clips, stamps, index cards, whiteout, tape, stapler, glue, erasers, highlighters, rulers, extra pencils and pens 
• File box 

• Three-hole punch 
• Pencil cup for supply organization 
• Trash can 
• Tweezers 
• Kleenex tissues 

• Laundry basket 
• Duct tape 
• Nail clippers 
• Lint roller 
• Sunscreen 

• Sunglasses 
• Reusable water bottle 

Optional: 

• Electric kettle 
• Coffee maker 

• Water pitcher with filter 
• Iron and ironing board 
• Poster putty (for hanging up decorations) 
• Umbrella  
• Floor rug 

• Rolls of quarters (to do laundry) 
• Earplugs or sleep mask 
• Small safe for valuable belongings 
• Bike or skateboard and helmet 
• Bike lock 

• Bike pump 
• Bluetooth speaker 
• Broom and dustpan 
• Work-out clothes and shoes 
• Hair dryer 

• Small refrigerator/microwave (check with college for restrictions) 
• Robe 
• Flashlight 
• Extra blankets and pillows 
• Can opener 

• Disposable camera 
• Disinfecting wipes 
• Lap desk 
• Mirror 
• Multivitamins 

• Cotton balls and Q tips 
• White board and markers 
• Envelopes 
• Folding chairs 
• Mini vacuum 

• Vaseline 
• Sports equipment, balls and Frisbees