Tips for Incoming College Students

COLUMBUS, Miss. – First-time college students have a lot of adjustments to get used to, and being prepared has its advantages. From the new suite mate to the strange noises the new building makes, it can all be overwhelming, but with a few tips students can make sure the transition is smooth.
Sirena Cantrell, dean of students and director of housing and residence life for Mississippi University for Women, offers advice that can make life in the residence halls a lot easier.
“The number one advice that I would give to a freshman is to not be afraid to ask for help. We have so many staff members in place and resources on our campus that are here for them. I would encourage them to ask for help if they find themselves in a situation,” Cantrell said.
In order to get ahead of some of those move-in worries, here is a list of Cantrell’s do’s and don’ts for students’ new home away from home. The list will vary for each university, and students should check websites and correspondence for their school.
At The W, students should always bring personal hygiene items, as well as washing supplies. Whether it is soap, toothpaste and deodorant or laundry detergent, dryer sheets and a basket for your laundry, these supplies will be greatly needed. Also bring cleaning supplies such as towels, small brooms or vacuums, bathroom cleaners, air fresheners and garbage cans.
Students are also encouraged to bring supplies such as plates, bowls, utensils and can openers.
When students are packing their clothes, they need to be sure to bring coats, umbrellas, rain coats/boots, hangers, irons and ironing boards for their own rooms.
Students do need to remember supplies for entertainment and decorating. Items to keep in mind are televisions, DVD players, movies and gaming systems, and items for decorating such as rugs, curtains and storage containers.
The list of supplies can get quite long, and each student will have his or her own idea of what are the most important items, but each is advised to make a checklist to ensure they have the things they need.
The don’ts are just as important as the dos, because they could cause fire hazards or put students in danger.
Do not bring any outside cooking sources such as microwaves, toasters, hotplates or grills. Also, leave refrigerators, power tools or extension cords at home.
Students are not allowed to have pets, but The W’s campus will allow fish.
It is not permitted to make any changes to the dorm furniture that is provided, which means no unapproved bed raisers. Students are also discouraged from bringing outside lighting such as lava lamps, halogen lights or track lighting.
The W provides furnishings such as beds, dressers, desks and chairs, cable and Ethernet connectivity, a micro-fridge and microwave.
Finally, students are not allowed to bring anything other than prescribed medication.
Cantrell said the stay at the residence halls can be safe and without accident if each student makes an effort to follow the rules.

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