Everything you should actually pack to survive UMass 2016

It’s that time of year again: Fall Move-In

I’m sure most of us are frantically packing our lives into boxes, hoping that we will somehow find a way to make it magically all fit within the confines of our double rooms, but there are a few things that we must make sure we remember to bring with us for the start of Fall semester here at UMass – some of these, you won’t find on your parent-friendly packing list.

Ping Pong Balls & Red Solo Cups

If there is one rule when it comes to surviving weekends at UMass, it’s that you should always be prepared for spontaneous beer pong. You will be everyone’s hero if you have supplies when others are less prepared.

Halloween Costume Possibilities

It is never too early to start planning for Halloweekend. We take Halloween seriously at UMass – as many of us know. October will sneak up on you, and you will be glad that you are already set.

Tupperware

Let’s face it, walking to the dining halls can often be a pain in the ass. But if you go prepared to lunch, you may not have to interrupt your studying or your movie-watching. Bring some tupperware and slide the contents from your plate into the container. Then, voila! You have food for later! Just find a friend with a microwave. But be casual about it since it’s technically “not allowed.”

Umass Apparel

Walking around campus, it’s pretty clear how much our student body takes school pride seriously. At least 90 percent of campus has some sort of UMass apparel sported at all times. To fit in, you need to dress the part…and that means sweatshirts, t-shirts, hats, pants, jackets and more.

Hit up the campus bookstore within the first week or so for the best deals.

Umbrellas

This item is probably on every other packing list – but it is the most overlooked! DON’T OVERLOOK IT! There is nothing worse than having to walk between classes in the pouring rain or wait at a bus stop without an umbrella, especially on a campus the size of UMass. Trust me – it’s the most important item on the list.

Headphones and back up headphones

You may not think you need back up headphones, but you’re wrong. The worst thing that can happen is you lose or break your only pair and are left music-less while walking between classes or riding the bus.

Bottle Opener

The worst thing is when you finally get a hold of alcohol…and have the inability to open it.

First Aid Kit

Accidents happen – especially when attempting to get across campus while suffering from slight to intense inebriation. It’s always best to be prepared for the worst. And if you aren’t in need of band-aids for the blisters you’ve obtained walking across campus the first few weeks, then you’re doing something wrong.

Blankets / Bug Spray

You may not think to bring these two items but trust me, they will make a world of difference when spending evenings on Orchard Hill watching the sunset.

Fans

They always seem to forget to mention to incoming freshmen just how hot it can get in those dorms during the first few weeks of the fall semester and the last few weeks of the spring semester. Fans will save your life if you aren’t blessed with one of the few dorms on campus that have Air Conditioning.  

Scissors

You’ll need them more often than you think you will. Trust me.