Coeds everywhere are busy preparing for the big move to campus life in August. It feels like an overwhelming process for many, but UNC Greensboro (UNCG) is here to help. The staff at Housing and Residence Life (HRL) give advice to remove students’ summer stress with move-in hacks and tips.
“At HRL, we understand that a good move-in experience puts students in the right frame of mind for the whole semester,” explains Mary Steele, assistant director of marketing and communications for HRL at UNCG. “We’ve set up several processes to make moving in easier – like ordering a refrigerator so it’s delivered to your room or submitting your id photo online so you don’t have to wait in line for your Spartan ID on move-in day. We want all students to have a good experience and contact us with any specific questions they have.”
Stop, Drop & Roll – It’s not just for social distancing anymore!
Perhaps the best insider tip to prepare students for moving to UNCG is to sign up for a Stop, Drop & Roll appointment about a month before move-in day. All students living on campus receive an email that prompts them to sign up for a two-hour block to bring their belongings and set up their rooms early, rather than bringing everything when they move in.
Stop, Drop & Roll is the perfect time to:
- move larger items into your room
- decorate your space
- inspect your room and furniture and place maintenance requests if needed
- set up electronics with new Wi-Fi settings before your hall is full of others trying to do the same
- get a feel for your new living space before move-in day
Stop, Drop & Roll appointments were enacted during times of social distancing but became permanent when everyone realized how much stress it removed from students before their classes began.
“Make that extra trip to Greensboro and you’ll have greater access to move-in carts, time to put in maintenance requests, and an early opportunity to get excited about your room,” reminds Steele. “You’ll be glad you did!”
Don’t be an Overpacker!
A classic move-in mistake made by first-year students is packing more than they need. Overpacking generally stems from overthinking. HRL encourages students to be organized, without trying to anticipate every need that may arise over the semester.
“We have seen students who move in using U-Haul trucks,” Steele reveals. “Much of what they’ve brought is unnecessary.” She encourages students to curb their tendency to pack too much by learning from those who have overpacked before them.
5 Things NOT TO PACK for College:
- A Refrigerator
Before you disregard the rest of this list, rest assured that every student absolutely needs a mini fridge for their room. We are simply suggesting that you don’t pack it! Instead, order a Microfridge. For a rental fee, the fridge will be waiting in the room for you upon move-in and you can leave it when you move out. As long as you order it by August 1, you can skip the extra hauling and opt for convenience.
- Items that will get you fined.
Lots of the items on HRL’s Do Not Pack list are common sense no-no’s like weapons, drug paraphernalia, and fire hazards. Review the list and be warned that there will be health and safety checks where your contraband can be confiscated. Also avoid items like LED light strips and nails to hang pictures, which are prohibited in your residence hall. Anything that will damage the walls will lead to a hefty fine when you move out.
- Furniture
All residence hall rooms are equipped with the furniture you need and space for extra items is minimal. Furniture cannot be removed from the rooms. Use what is provided and focus your attention on decorative items to personalize your room and organizers to maximize the space and storage for your needs.
- Duplicates of Stuff Your Roommate is Bringing
Maximize space in your room and minimize your packing list by comparing notes with your roommate. One roommate brings a microwave, the other a TV. Items like mirrors or coffee makers are often duplicated and cleaning supplies can be shared. It’s a simple conversation that will save you headaches on move-in day.
- Valuables
Consider leaving irreplaceable valuables at home – and certainly don’t bring valuables or perishables to Stop, Drop & Roll before you officially move into your room. If you are concerned about electronics or jewelry, think about purchasing an insurance policy that will protect your belongings from loss or theft. HRL does recommend that you bring your bike to Stop, Drop & Roll, but make sure to secure it to a bike rack near your residence hall with a lock.
Make Move-in Fun Again
When students avoid common move-in mistakes, they can focus on making their rooms comfortable and uplifting environments for the new academic year. HRL encourages all students to celebrate their creativity and show off practical space hacks by entering the Best Dressed Room contest by September 10. It’s been a UNCG tradition for 15 years, and this year, over $500 in merchandise (a PS5 is one of the prizes!) will be awarded to top winners.
“Last year, we had 330 students enter our Best Dressed Room contest. There were so many amazing rooms,” says Steele, who organizes the contest. “The grand prizes are a big draw, but many students enter just for the bragging rights. They want to be the Best Dressed Room in their residence hall.”
In general, HRL advises students not to sweat it! Taking advantage of packing tips and processes like Stop, Drop & Roll should keep move-in day fun and exciting for all.
If you are a student preparing for your move to UNCG, consult HRL’s Move-In webpage for answers to questions and helpful links. And always, email hrl@uncg.edu with any specific questions you have along the way. We can’t wait to see you at the G!
Story by Becky Deakins, University Communications.
Photography submitted by Housing and Residence Life, unless otherwise noted.
