Even though I technically moved into the apartment in more than a month ago, I can still fill you in a bit about this whole process, as I (sorta) moved again this weekend. :)
So, you're off to college! You've had that acceptance letter for months now, enjoyed your last free summer, gone to Preview, went home exhausted after Preview, and now you're closing in on the last few weeks, days, hours, before you settle into your new home-away-from-home! But here's the big question: Are you ready?!
Moving is crazy. I'd only done it once before, but really it didn't count because my parents did most of the work. Preparing for college means taking the time to decide just what you want to bring along for the next four years, and if all of it will be practical (and fit) in your dorm/apartment. Granted, you can always go home, of course. So if you really want that desk lamp, nightlight, or dust buster you didn't think you'd need, you can simply grab it when you go home for the weekend or during break. Same concept goes for items you want to bring home. You might decide that your collection of 34 encyclopedias, abundance of Tupperware, or wireless printer really aren't as useful as you would have thought (although, Tupperware is awesome!). Thus, my advice, if you're looking for it, would be to pack what you need, and not what you don't. It's okay to bring some things you would like to have with you, but if you are thinking about bringing something that won't be touched for a year and will likely collect dust in the back of your closet, I would say it might be best left at home. Personally, I could not leave without some books... a bunch of books... but I promise it wasn't my whole library! Ultimately what you decide to bring is your choice.
Okay, so you've torn your room apart, going through everything, and finally settling on what gets to travel to Gainesville with you. Now when do plan to go? If you're moving everything for the first time, I would not recommend coming the day before classes start, but hopefully that's a no-brainer. You'll want to give yourself enough time to move in and get comfortable with campus. Of course, staying in a dorm, I believe the earliest one can move in is the Wednesday before. Even though this may seem odd, it might be best because you'll be able to settle in before the craziness of classes start.
Tip: Come prepared with paper towels, Lysol wipes/spray, all-purpose cleaner, whatever you think you'll need in case the room you walk into isn't exactly what you expected. I'm not saying every room will be unsightly, but if your a germ-freak like me, make sure you pack some cleaning supplies!
Here's another tip: When we first moved in, our friend's mom told us about this great thing you can get at Target/Walmart for your bed. As in hotels, mattresses in dorms and apartments are usually not replaced once a tenant moves out, so whatever was there before you came, chances are, it's still there. This could be dust mites, anything; you can use your imagination for that one. Anyway, for about $20 I believe, you can purchase a vinyl-like mattress bag that you literally place and zip your mattress in. That way whatever was there, stays in the bag, and you never have to touch it. If you haven't noticed before, I like things pretty clean. :)
At last the day has come! You stand just inside you're empty dorm/apartment, itching to fill it will all the wonderful things you've bought and brought. Remember, if you moving in on a busy day, it may take while, but as long as everything's in you're room, you can always move it around later. I don't know how the weather will be on move-in day in Fall, but Summer B saw buckets of rain in the afternoon, so don't get caught in a 3:00 downpour. Also, if you suddenly realize you need more storage containers or something, Walmart, Target and two Publixes are located conveniently on Archer Road.
So relax and don't worry! Moving in is just the beginning. :)
-Vanessa
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