Going to College, especially in another country is a time for new beginnings – and a chance for you to reinvent yourself…so why pack up all your old life and take it with you?
Many freshmen make the mistake of over-packing when they first travel to their new college. It can be a frightening and nerve-wracking experience to leave behind your old bedroom, your friends and family to embark on new opportunities. When moving to college, it can be tempting for students to try and take many “comforter items” along with them.
It is easy to get attached to items such as clothes, journals, sketchpads, photo albums etc. – and you may worry about becoming nostalgic or homesick – but remember that you will amass a lot of new things over your time in the US so you won’t need to cling on to things from the past so much! Also, remember – the less ‘essentials’ you pack, the more room you will have for a few personal reminders of home!
What to Take:
Essentials
- A photocopy of your passport and visa documents
- I20 (you’ll need this to get through customs)
- Medication
- Dollars and debit or credit cards
- First Aid Kit
Electronics
- Laptop and USB Flash Drive
- US Adapters
- Camera
- Headphones
Clothing
- One formal outfit
- A few everyday outfits (you'll buy a lot more out there!)
- Some basic sportswear
- Pyjamas
- Underwear
- Walking shoes and gym shoes
Miscellaneous
- Day pack (as a carry on and for short trips)
- Photos and some personal items
What to Buy There:
- Bedding
- Towels and washcloths
- Bathrobe
- Basic Toiletries
- Flip-flops (for communal shower!)
- Stationary
- Umbrella
