Let’s be real: moving into college can feel overwhelming. Between loading and unloading the car, hauling heavy bags and suitcases, figuring out where everything belongs, and trying to get organized, it can take hours before your new room finally starts to feel like home.
The good news? It doesn’t have to be. We sat down with some of Endicott’s Residence Assistants to gather their best Move-In Day tips, from packing smarter to settling in faster. Whether you’re moving into the Nest for the first time or coming back for another year, these tried-and-true tips will help make move-in a whole lot easier.
Responses have been edited for clarity and length.
What’s your #1 move-in tip?
Elizabeth Henderson ’27: No matter how you decorate your room on the first day, you can always change it later. Don’t stress about it, just make your space comfortable for you.
Izabela Tabor ’28: Bring two fans: a small fan for your desk/next to your bed and a larger fan to cool down the room. Box fans work great for windows that fully open!
Charlotte Santos ’28: Have your clothes already on hangers with a trash bag over the top of them. All you have to do is take the trash bag off when you get to school, and they’re ready to go!
How can you make a residence hall feel like home?
Sabrina Brunet ’28: Bring pictures of yourself and your favorite people! Having photos from home to look at is so comforting. Make and bring homemade decorations! There are lots of pop-up events on campus where you have the opportunity to make homemade decor. Also, taking the time to meet the people on your floor and in your building during the first week is so important.
Ethan Jean ’29: Bring a carpet, pictures of family, a TV, and your favorite blanket.
Henderson: Get to know the people in your hall. Don’t be afraid to knock on people’s doors and introduce yourself. They are in the same boat, and would probably appreciate getting to know you too. Also try to attend things happening in your dorm, or even hang out in the common room!
What’s one item students often forget to bring but end up needing?
Tyler Abell ’29: Forks and spoons are something I forgot but ended up needing here and there.
Alexa Suchy ’27: A steamer for wrinkled clothing.
Holly Smith ’28: First aid supplies and supplies for when you're sick (medicine, thermometer, etc.).
Brunet: Shoes to wear around your dorm that are easy to slide on and off!
What’s the best way to maximize space in your room?
Izzy Shea ’28: Utilize vertical space (think tall and skinny shelves).
Brunet: Only bring clothing you will regularly wear along with one or two nicer outfits. If you need certain clothing for a special occasion, odds are you can borrow from a roommate or friend. Lofting beds! Don’t get decor that takes up floor space, like a big plant, for example.
How can you stay organized throughout the semester?
Smith: Take care of things in the moment so they don’t pile up and turn into something huge. Also, have an organization system for handouts you might get in class. I use folders!
Henderson: Plan a reset day; lots of people pick Friday or Sunday. This is the day you take an hour or two to pick up your room, do some laundry, and just reset after a long week.