What to Take to College
Perhaps we can learn a few things from British students. The term began on the other side of Atlantic. For those who live far from the university, the tiny bedroom will be their home for the next three or four years.
There's a lovely view of the campus grounds, inspiring them to finish their assignments on time. And if they have nothing else to do, then they have to dust off the sides and polish the glass. (Nothing like a better view.) And if they forgot to bring a doorstop, then they'll buy one. It will be handy during Freshers' Week, where this tiny item can help them make new friends in a week or two. But there's a downside.
They'll sort what things to bring to their other bedroom. They appreciate their parents for being worried about how they'll manage to live away from home, but items bought from Ikea might stun them. It will have no place in a limited space. It must be the essentials.
Imagine you're a British student, on your first year. What things you must take to the university? It won't require rocket science. You take it for granted, so this is the right time to look all over your room. You'll have a short list in a few minutes. Let's find out:
Posters and photos. If space makes you uncomfortable for weeks, then how about the dormitory. It looks drab, prompting you to wonder if it has been used as a setting for a Gothic novel. Moreover, you won't be inspired to look outside during a rainy day. (Unless you have some imagination, thinking about your previous holiday with your family. It can be a good premise for a mystery thriller.) Don't be ashamed of posting your favorite music artist(s). And it will be lovely to put a photo of your family.
Clothes horse and peg airer. There will be instances when you need to hang those wet clothes. And you might be embarrassed if someone would barge into your room and see your boxer shorts hung on every available surface. Use a clothes horse, while a peg airer can fit anywhere.
Hairdryer. There's a good reason to bring an iron, but let's look at it this way. University wardrobes are smaller than you think. It's unlikely you'll wear beach shorts. And you won't use the iron often. A college porter will be happy to lend you one. Hairdryer can be a good alternative, and you can ask Mum about it.
Plate and bowl. You don't have to worry about a dinner set piece. Standard kitchen items will do, and don't settle for a set of plate and bowl. Two pieces of each will be better. (The extra pair might be used during unexpected situations.) As for the other items, there's no reason to keep the kitchen well stocked. You may look for one or two at the nearby store when you host dinner for your new mates.
A few books. Don't fret about the titles in the reading list, as they are available in the library. And think again if you'll buy one. (You might not open it again.) But you still have time for leisure reading. Go over your dad's collection and look for the books you haven't read yet.
