CUAA’s Move-in Day for the 2024-25 academic year is just around the corner on Thursday, Aug. 22. Here are some do’s and don’ts of what to bring for living on campus.
What to Bring
- Fan– Dorm rooms can get hot, so having a fan that can easily move around the room is essential. A fan can also provide a little white noise when you need peace and quiet to sleep or study. I like to keep my fan by my bed to keep me cool at night.
- Decoration that doubles as storage– Storage ottomans are cute and go well with any dorm aesthetic. They also fit so much inside. They are also great to use as stools if your bed is lofted.
- A mini fridge with a freezer– A mini fridge is a dorm essential, but buying one with a freezer is a game changer. This was the first year I had a freezer on my mini fridge, and I loved it!
- Extension cords– There are limited outlets in dorm rooms, so having extension cords will make your life easier. I recommend bringing at least two.
- Lights– Dorm lighting is not the best, so bringing a lamp will brighten up your dorm. I have a tall lamp next to my bed and it is so convenient for reading or homework.
What Not to Bring
- Microwave– Every dorm has a microwave in the kitchen area. Putting a microwave in your room would take up a lot of the limited space. Having one in your room can also cause it to smell like food.
- Shower Caddy– CUAA, fortunately, does not have communal showers. There is one in each suite, so I have found it is easier to buy shelves to hang over your shower head or add more storage to the shower.
- Food– There are a lot of great grocery stores right around campus. My personal favorites are Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods.
Want to see more?
Check out our Residence Life page to see more of what to bring!
—This story is written by Isabelle Arnold, Social Media Assistant for Concordia University Ann Arbor. Isabelle Arnold is a senior and will graduate from CUAA in December 2024 with a degree in Digital Media Design. You can reach her at isabelle.arnold@student.cuaa.edu.