Moving into a U.S. Dorm

Moving into a residence hall or dormitory is always an eventful time. It’s a new phase in life, new studies begin, and new friendships are formed. Moving out of one’s family home is also a challenge for many as it is the first time they’ve had to rely entirely on themselves for everything from food to fun. This move can even be more challenging for international students who are not always able to travel in advance to see their new university and who cannot take everything they would like from home because they are flying. Airline luggage and security requirements minimize what an international student can bring from home. Universities usually provide a suggested list of items you’ll need. Take a good look at a sample list here and you’ll see that you aren’t going to be able to bring it all, or even, most of it, with you, if you’re traveling from overseas.



By skimming the list, you’ll probably realize that a refrigerator isn’t going to fit in the luggage and laundry detergent is a real waste of precious space. So, what to do?

Recommendation #1: Try to arrange to buy as much as possible in the U.S. Not only can you buy locally almost everything from the sample list above, but remember that servicing a malfunctioning item will be easier if you buy it locally. Also, remember that the U.S. has a different voltage (110/120 volts) than most of the rest of the world (220/240 volts), so it is not useful to bring in most electronics. Laptop computer AC adapters are usually an exception because they are multi-voltage. However, remember to check before you travel!

Recommendation #2: Coordinate as many purchases as you can with your roommate. Since you are likely going to share your room, it’s a good idea to try to see what you and your roommate share in common. Does your roommate like to watch a lot of TV and want his or her own TV? Coordinating means (a) deciding with your roommate ahead of time about some smaller items that you could bring, and (b) going shopping together your first week at university on bigger items for which you might share the cost. Working out your purchases with your roommate is also a great way to build a new friendship. Make sure you sign a pre-nup, though! Decide first how you are going to distribute items once you stop being roommates.

Recommendation #3: Do bring a supply of toiletries for at least a month while you try to figure out where you can shop and get the prices and if possible get a student discount card. If you have special items, check online to see if you can order them in the U.S. If not, then you may wish to bring a year’s supply with you. The same goes for prescriptions, which might be difficult, if not impossible, to refill in the U.S. without a doctor’s visit. It’s a good idea to bring a sufficient supply with you in advance.

Recommendation #4: Get in touch with the international student adviser or an international student club representative (or both). They’ll have good advice on what to bring. They might also know of international students who are leaving and want to sell their things.

Have fun!