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Here’s what I wish I knew before my own move-in day. Grab a pen and take some notes!
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Move-in day: the day you’ve been counting down to for weeks. You’re excited, nervous, maybe a little sweaty (and not just from the August heat). Whether you’re moving into a dorm or your first apartment, the combination of cardboard boxes, emotional parents, and “Where’s the elevator?” moments can feel… overwhelming.
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I’ve been there—squeezing a mini fridge through a doorway that looked way wider in my imagination, wondering if I really needed three throw blankets, and meeting new neighbors while covered in dust. Here’s what I wish I knew before my own move-in day.
It’s tempting to toss everything you own into one giant suitcase, but trust me—your back will hate you for it. Pack in smaller boxes or bins you can easily carry. Group items by category so unpacking is easier.
Pro tip: Clear plastic bins let you see what’s inside without having to open every single one. Plus, you can reuse them for storage under your bed.
By the time you’re done moving in, you’re going to be exhausted. Pack a small backpack or tote with the things you’ll need immediately:
When your stuff is piled in a hallway or stacked in the back of a car, it’s easy to lose track. Use painter’s tape and a marker to label each box with your name, room number, and contents. It’ll save you—and anyone helping you—so much time.
Before you bring a microwave, coffee maker, or extra desk lamp, check what your dorm or apartment already provides. Some places have strict rules about appliances, so it’s better to confirm before lugging something heavy you can’t even use.
If your school assigns move-in times, stick to them—they’re designed to prevent hallway traffic jams. If you get to choose, aim for an early slot so you have more time to unpack and get settled before any welcome events.
There will be carts in short supply, doors propped open with random shoes, and people shouting “Whose box is this?” Take a deep breath and roll with it. The faster you accept the chaos, the less stressful it feels.
It sounds silly, but after hours of moving, nothing feels better than being able to collapse into a fully made bed. Plus, it instantly makes your new space feel a little more like home.
Even if you’re sweaty and slightly frazzled, take a minute to say hi to the people living around you. You don’t need to have a long conversation—just a friendly “Hey, I’m [Name], nice to meet you” goes a long way.
Scissors, a screwdriver, and some duct tape can save the day when you’re trying to assemble furniture, hang decorations, or fix something that’s wobbling.
Before unpacking, snap a few photos of your room—especially if it’s school-owned housing. It’s useful for remembering what it looked like before (and for avoiding damage fees later). And of course, take a few “first day” photos for your memories (or Instagram).
You’ll feel the urge to have your room perfect immediately, but it’s okay to pace yourself. Get the essentials set up and tackle the rest over the next few days.
Between hauling boxes and setting up Wi-Fi, it’s easy to forget that this is a big life milestone. Take a minute to soak it in—you’re starting a new chapter.
💡 P.S. If you want the ultimate move-in checklist—including what to pack, what to leave at home, and ways to save money on your dorm setup—our Fund Your Future student portal has it ready for you. Along with weekly updated scholarships, budgeting tips, and 1:1 office hours with a college funding pro, it’s basically your go-to for making college life less stressful.
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