Things you might not have thought to pack for residence

Congratulations, and welcome to Ontario Tech, home of the Ridgebacks! While we are enjoying the summer's last days, the first week of fall term is just around the corner!

Some may be eager to get a head start on readying for their new home or home away from home, while for others it may be frightening and exciting. Being prepared can help eliminate the scary aspect of this transitional time, and making your space feel like home is the best place to start. The residence team does a great job listing your go-to items right here but this list is for those things that have you saying, "I wish I had brought this from home or had that to make my dorm feel more like me."

Organizer and Handy Things

• Extension Cords & Power Strips - with USB ports: With only a few outlets, this will be much-needed.
• Command Strips/Hooks: Great for hanging items without damaging walls, mainly if nail restrictions exist.
• Mini Tool Kit: You'll wish you had a screwdriver more often than you'd think.
• Over-the-Door Organizers: space is limited; having these, even if you want to tuck them away in the closet, gives you more space.
• First Aid Kit: Trust me, you will use this!
• Shower Caddy: Helps organize your toiletries, especially if you share a bathroom.
• Bed Risers: These create extra storage space under your bed.
• Laptop Riser and Extra monitor: Having something to prop your laptop is great when you're studying for an exam in your dorm and for some an additional monitor is great

Food and Kitchen

• Multipurpose Dishware: A microwave-safe bowl, plate, mug, and cutlery are great for quick meals or heating up leftovers.
• Reusable Water Bottle & Travel Mug: Ontario Tech has a lot of refill stations; having a reusable water bottle will be super handy but also ensure you drink water, which, as odd as it may sound, is something we, as students, need to remember to do. Travel mugs are great in the winter when you're running late and can't make an extra stop for coffee or something warm - it saves time and money.
• Tupperware: For storing leftovers or snacks.
• Air Fryer: You will make most of your meals or snacks here if you opt for something other than a meal plan. If you have a roommate, try coordinating things like this with them so you don't end up using precious storage space storing two.
• A Brita/water filter: When asking other students about their must-haves, this was easily the top answer!

Comfort Things

• Headphones/Speaker: Always have a pair of backup headphones you can leave at your dorm! Having a speaker is also nice when just hanging out.
• Small Fan: Residences can get stuffy, and a fan helps with airflow.
• Portable Humidifier: This can be helpful if you're prone to dry skin or sinus issues, especially in winter.
• Whiteboard or Corkboard: Useful for reminders or organizing your schedule.
• Extra Long Phone Charger: Useful if your bed is far from an outlet.
• Photos, Picture Frames and Personal Mementos: Pictures of our comforting people and places help us feel more at home. This can even be a starting point for all the new ones you'll take as you continue your journey here at OTU.
• Throw Blankets & Pillows: Two things: Warmth and Personality! 

I hope you found this list helpful and that you're feeling more prepared for your big move!

With Love as always,

Alex