Most times, when you move into a dorm room, you have absolutely no idea what to expect and you really aren’t sure what you really need when you move in. That’s why I’m here! Below is my list of essentials.

Items You Actually NEED When First Moving Into a Dorm Room

1. Sheets: I recommend two sets so that you don’t have to do laundry as much.
2. Pillows: You’re going to need at least one, otherwise sleeping is going to get difficult.
3. Towels: again, two sets is a good idea. Bath towels, hand towels and washcloths. You’re going to need all of these.
4. Closet Organizers: The closets at Ambrose are fairly big as far as dorm closets go, but it’s still a good idea to at least get a shoe hanger, and maybe something for your sweaters and scarfs.
5. Laptop: This is pretty important and useful. If you really can’t afford one, or yours is acting out, Ambrose does have some computers in the library that you can use for your assignments.
6. Bins: to store your stuff under your bed. You are going to want to maximize on the amount of space that you have, so it’s handy to make use of under the bed. And the cool thing about some of the beds on our dorms is they are adjustable. You can just move the mattress higher on the bed frame so that you have more space underneath your bed.
7. Eating Utensils: This means plates, knives, forks, and spoons. I would recommend having two of each as well as a couple mugs. Top Tip: If you only get mugs, then you can drink anything, cold or hot.
8. School Supplies: We’re talking notebooks, pens, pencils…etc. Standard supplies.
9. Laundry Basket/Bag: We have laundry rooms in basement and you need a way to transport your dirty laundry to and from your room.
10. Winter Gear: Calgary is a city that can get hit hard by winter, and one way to make it more fun is by being prepared for the elements. Invest in a good coat, a good pair of boots, and some mitts, scarves and toques.
11. Shower Caddy: At Ambrose, you share a shower with three other people and you don’t have room in the bathroom itself to store all of your shower essentials. So make sure you have something to carry your soap, shampoo, conditioner…etc.
12. Lamp: Your room has overhead lights, but for those late night paper writing sessions, it’s a good idea to have a lamp so that your roommate can sleep in semi-darkness. Bring a desk lamp, and maybe some Christmas lights.
13. Hangers: You will want to hang up some of your clothes. Trust me on this one.
14. Printer: This is super helpful, especially if you’re up late writing a paper for your 8:15 am. We do have a couple of printers on campus that you can use as well. The printers on campus cost 10 cents/sheet.

Optional Items

15. Kettle/Keurig: Each dorm has a couple of kettles in the little kitchenette. Chances are, you can use those. But if you want to make tea/coffee in your room, this is always a nice thing to have.
16. Sticky Tack/Command Hooks: If you want to hang anything up on the walls, and still get your damage deposit back at the end of the year, these are going to be helpful.
17. Steamer: This is the cheap and fast way to iron your clothes. It can be a life saver when you really need to look presentable/professional.
18. Late Night Snacks: I always kept a stash of baby carrots and apples, along with some salty snacks for those late night study times.
19. Coffee/Tea: When the Calf (cafeteria) closes, often you’re still working/needing a warm beverage during the cold nights. Having your own stash of tea/coffee helps.
20. Earplugs: No matter who’s in the room next to you or above/below you, chances are there will be one or two nights where the noise level is a bit too loud for sleep purposes. These also come in handy if you want to nap in the middle of the day.