Many colleges recommend you to bring a computer and some even have incentive programs to help you purchase one. Computers are useful for writing papers, communication, research and running applications such as MatLab, and a printer is handy when you need hard copies. Although computers and printers are available on many campuses, you'll be glad you have your own when the computer lab is full or you need to do some work at 2 a.m.
Bring casual clothes, underwear, socks, a variety of shoes, pajamas, a few dressy outfits, a bathrobe, pajamas, flip flops, a coat and a swimsuit. Why flip flops? Dorms often have shared showers, and wearing flip flops helps protect your feet from athlete's foot, foot fungus and planters warts. You'll also need hangers, detergent and a laundry basket.
Bring personal items such as shampoo, deodorant, a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, wash rags, nail clippers, razors, a hair brush, small first aid kit, contraceptives, hair dryer, makeup and any medication you may need. You can buy many of these items as you run out, so don't try to pack enough for the entire year. A carrier is handy for taking some of these items to and from the bathroom.
Pack two sets of sheets, a pillow, blanket, extension cord, surge protector and some cleaning supplies. A few items, like a wastebasket, may be supplied. Some colleges allow a mini-fridge and microwave. Ask the college or someone living in the dorm how the room is furnished before you arrive.
A planner is incredibly handy. You can use it to track your class schedule, class locations, assignments and tests. If your planner doesn't come with a blank schedule template, print a template for it. You can also keep a campus map folded up in your planner, as they may come in handy during your initial time on campus.
Bring an alarm clock so you don't miss classes or other morning engagements. Try to find an alarm clock that also has batteries in case someone trips a breaker. Some colleges drop students from a class if they don't attend the first lecture.
Instead of racing back to your room between classes, use a book bag to carry all the items you need. Take your planner, keys, pens, calculator, books and notebooks with you to class. You can also take a micro-recorder, but ask the professor if you're allowed to tape lectures before using it.
Ear plugs are incredibly useful if you need to sleep and your roommate stays up later than you do. Some dorm walls are thin, and you may hear your neighbors or people in the hallway as well. Make sure you get enough sleep. You don't want to fall asleep in class!
Bring a dinnerware set for one or two. You need a pot, bowl, plate, cup, spoon, fork, and knife. You may also want to bring Tupperware for leftovers. Some students prepare a large amount of food one day and store it, so they can simply reheat it when they're ready to eat it.
Take a credit card, identification cards, ATM card and a little cash. You need money to buy food, books and other supplies. Keep some quarters on hand for laundry, snack machines and public transit fees. You may need to go off campus to grocery or book stores.