Are you a new or returning student and looking for a checklist to make sure you have what you need for the fall semester? Look no further, I am here to help provide you with the top 20 items that will ensure a smooth transition into the semester.

  1. Starting off, I suggest bringing a computer or laptop. I love my laptop and use it every single day and wouldn’t be able to do homework without it. If you’re majoring in Media Arts & Game Development, Graphic Design, or another major that uses a lot of Adobe programs, a Mac is definitely recommended. Otherwise a PC works great and if you run into any issues with your laptop, Information Technology Services (ITS) on campus can help! Every residence hall has a computer lab with a printing station as well.
  2. Your bed is about to become your sanctuary. Bring cozy sheets, a warm comforter, pillows, and a foam mattress topper for extra comfort. Make sure the sheets and comforter are twin XL. I don’t know what I would do without my pillows & silk pillow cases (personal recommendation) and I love making sure I am keeping myself comfortable when I am in my room and would recommend bringing more than just one pillowcase.
  3. This year, UWW Housing partnered with Dormify, to help you easily find everything you will need for your room! Pick out a set that fits your favorite style and get all the bedding you’ll need. 
  4. The best item to have with you when surviving Wisconsin winters, is a blanket(s). I love having a few blankets on my bed to ensure maximum comfort when resting.
  5. Although I never used one in the residence halls, something that has really made a difference in my house is a box or rotating fan, and I wish I had one earlier in college.
  6. I would never have been able to charge all of my electronics or use my TV, speakers, or games if I didn’t pack a power strip with a surge protector.
  7. Not only did I use this as my emotional support water bottle, my Brita bottle and water filter pitcher has been incredible and I would recommend it to every student.
  8. Shower shoes, such as Crocs, slides, or flip flops are so helpful to have when using communal showers, and I would recommend you pack a pair along with a bathrobe.
  9. Towels & washcloths are an absolute necessity when maintaining good hygiene and  taking the best showers. I would recommend that you pack at least 2-4 large towels and 4-6 washcloths.
  10. Your shower caddy will help you keep all of your personal hygiene items in one spot, and help when carrying your toiletries to and from the bathroom.
  11.  Having a microwave (900w or less according to the UWW Housing policies) in your room is so beneficial for when you are up late studying, or want to quickly heat up a breakfast sandwich before class or make some popcorn for a snack.
  12. I loved having my compact refrigerator in my room and always had it fully stocked with my favorite foods, soda, juice, and water pitcher. The UWW Housing Policies states, “Refrigerators are permitted in student rooms, but may not exceed 4.7 cubic feet.” Remember to bring plates, bowls, cups, and silverware for when you are cooking meals from your room.
  13. Now, how would you hang your clothes without your hangers? (Hint: Pack your clothes with the hangers and wrap any hanging items in a garbage bag so all you have to do is put them on the railing and rip the bag off) Don’t forget to bring a few extra just in case some break throughout the semester.
  14. Laundry machines are included with your housing fees and accessible to students living in residence halls, but you need to remember to bring your own high efficiency laundry detergent to keep your clothes clean. I would also recommend keeping your floor clean of clothes. Make sure you bring a laundry bag or basket to store any dirty laundry and transport clean clothes back to your room.
  15. Personal decorations such as posters, banners, and photos from home will help you build your home away from home. Pick a few items to decorate your walls with and really make the space feel comfortable.
  16. Make sure to bring a variety of cleaning supplies (such as hand soap, windex, paper towels, clorox wipes, trash bags, toilet paper, toilet bowl cleaner, lysol spray, dish soap, a sponge, and anything else you may think of). Keep in mind, this only applies if you are living in suite-style residence halls and have a bathroom in your suite. If you live in any of the other residence halls, there are custodians who will clean the bathrooms, but it’s always a good idea to keep Clorox wipes, paper towels, and other disinfectant supplies handy in case you get sick and want to wipe away the germs.
  17. Within my first week of college, I tripped and scraped my knee and hip, so thank goodness my roommate had a first aid kit. I would also recommend bringing any medications or vitamins you might need throughout the semester (be thinking about cold and flu season).
  18. Keep yourself clean this semester with personal hygiene products & toiletries such as soap & shampoo, your toothbrush & toothpaste, any shaving accessories, a hair brush & dryer, and any moisturizers and deodorant.
  19. School supplies are an absolute must when moving into college. You will need pens, pencils, spiral notebooks, scissors, a stapler, tape, post-it notes, and a backpack to store it all in. You will pick up all your textbooks from the bookstore once you are all settled on campus.
  20. In addition to your HawkCard, you will want to bring your credit & debit cards and your driver’s license. If you are looking to apply to a job on campus make sure to have the original copies of your personal identification forms such as your social security card, or a birth certificate, or if you plan to leave the country you will want your passport. 

If you read to the end, comment below something you are excited about bringing, or the most unusual item you packed for college. If you are interested in purchasing any items, check out UW-Whitewater’s shop through Dormify at https://www.dormify.com/pages/college-dorm-essentials?sc=wwh&utm_campaign=2024+linens&utm_medium=school