Parents expect a student's main priority at school to be attending class and studying. Items that students require for studying include a computer (most students have laptops and take them to class to take notes); printer, if desired; a desk lamp; school supplies, such as paper, pens and a calculator; a calendar; and a book bag or backpack.
Students must be aware of the climate and average temperatures where their college is located. For example, the University of Oregon is in an area that experiences a wide variety of temperatures and weather and advises students to bring heavy jackets and blankets for colder months, rain gear and also lighter summer clothing. Students also need to bring their own hangers. Since most dorm rooms are relatively small, students must consider what will fit in their dresser and closet.
Students will spend a lot of time in their dorm rooms, and many students decorate their space to have a comfortable, homey feeling, especially if they live far from home. Items to bring include photos of family and friends, favorite books and music, pillows, small knickknacks, and decorative posters. Personal items and appliances needed include toiletries and towels, hair dryer, television, small refrigerator (if allowed) and an alarm clock.
Certain items are prohibited on college campuses. For example, items that cannot be in dorm rooms at the University of Oregon include guns; knives and martial-arts weapons; pets (except a fish tank that holds less than 10 gallons of water); flammable items, such as candles and open heat appliances; dangerous chemicals; and, obviously, illegal drugs. Most schools also do not allow double-sided foam tape for hanging posters since it damages the walls.