Moving Out: What I Learned

As the semester comes to an end, packing up your dorm can feel like the last thing you want to do. It’s a bittersweet reminder of how fast the year flew by, but it’s also a great time to reflect on what made life in the dorms a little easier.

Here are some of the most useful things you can have in your dorm:

• Mood Lighting: Whether it's a lamp, fairy lights, or an LED strip, having softer, adjustable lighting is a game-changer. It’s perfect for late-night study sessions or movie nights when the overhead lights are just too harsh. Plus, it’s a lifesaver if you and your roommate have different sleeping schedules.
• Board Games: Sometimes you just need a break from screens, and board games are perfect for that. Games like Catan and Chess were a few go-tos for study breaks and any free time we had. They’re a great way to unwind and bond with your friends.
• Headphones: An absolute must for anyone living with roommates. Whether you’re trying to get in the zone with some study music or need to block out background noise, a good pair of headphones makes all the difference!
• Storage Bins and Organizers: Dorm rooms are notoriously tight on space, so having some collapsible storage bins or organizers can be a lifesaver. They keep everything neat and make packing up at the end of the semester much easier.
• Laundry Hamper with Wheels: Lugging a full load to your closest laundry room is never fun. A hamper with wheels saves your back and makes laundry day a little bit easier!
• Rolling Cart and a Bean Bag: Sometimes, the simplest items make the biggest difference. A rolling cart is perfect for keeping your desk or bathroom essentials organized, and a bean bag adds a cozy, relaxed feel to your room!
• Plan and Coordinate: Moving in and out is a lot easier if you plan ahead. Start early, pack essentials first, and coordinate with your roommates about shared items to avoid duplicates and save space.
• Pack Smart: You probably won’t use as much as you think. Leave behind bulky items (like the ukulele you thought you’d play every day) and focus on the essentials!

What can and cannot be brought to the residence halls or to the RIT Inn?

• Any hot beverage appliance that has an automatic shut-off can be used in a student room.
• Appliances that are intended to be used for cooking are prohibited; examples are, but not limited to, rice maker, toaster, toaster oven, instant pot, air fryer, etc.

Moving out can be a hassle, but it’s also a chance to reflect on the small things that made dorm life more manageable! As you head home for the summer (or maybe just a short break), take a second to appreciate those little dorm hacks and memories you’ve collected. They’ll definitely come in handy next semester! 

Learn more about the residence halls

Learn more about the RIT Inn