Shop Smart: College Shopping Tips
Thursday, July 24, 2014
As a social media intern for my school's office of residence life and housing part of my job is to write blog content for our website. This is a blog I wrote with helpful hints to successfully shop for college living!
Shopping for college
can be stressful. As an incoming freshmen you might find yourself clueless as
what to buy. If you’re an upperclassmen you might be new to apartment living
and suddenly you have a whole kitchen and living room to fill. Regardless of
your status, you might be faced with some difficult times while shopping,
unsure of what to purchase. Here are some helpful suggestions to make your
college shopping experience easier.
Make a List
This might seem simple
but it’s a very important step in the dorm room shopping experience that many people
bypass. Having a list is helpful while shopping so you can make sure that you
stay focused and don’t forget anything. A great place to start is by going to your housing webpage for a list of suggested items to
bring to campus. Then think about items that you use every day that you will
need in while at school. Another great thing to do is look around your room for
important items and add those to your list. By creating a list and staying
organized your shopping is already off to a great start.
Talk To a Friend
Do you have a friend
that already has a year of college under their belt? If you’re unsure of what
to bring to college they are a great source to ask about what to bring. They
can provide insight on what they bought, what they wish they had remembered and
any other tips they have about shopping to live on campus!
Consult Your Roommate
You and your roommate
will want to be in contact regarding your dorm room to ensure that everything
need is divided up. Plan who is bringing the television, the fridge, the
microwave, etc. You also might want to discuss dorm decor in case you and your
roommate wish to buy coordinating items. If you live close then going dorm
shopping together could always be a fun way to get to know your roommate before
the year starts.
Shop Around
It’s okay if you don’t
buy everything at once. Stores will be having different sales and specials
throughout summer so you are going to want to shop around to ensure you get the
best deals possible. Break down your shopping trips. One day just go looking
for desk and school supplies, the next make your focus bedding and bathroom. Be
sure to compare prices between stores as well.
Think Transportation
Buying a bunch of dorm
accessories can be a lot of fun but don’t forget that you need a way to get all
of your belongings to campus. Keep this in mind while shopping if you’re
purchasing larger items. How many cars will be carrying your items to campus?
Do you have storage to put stuff in during the drive? One suggestion is if you
buy storage containers, such as a 3-drawer organizer be sure to pack your
belongings in an empty container to maximize room for transportation.
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