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I asked one of the student assistants working in the Office of Parent and Family Programs to think back to the things she brought to school that ended up being essentials. She thoughtfully added a reminder of a few things students shouldn't bring!--Susan Doyle

With school right around the corner, it’s time to get those residence hall room essentials! I remember last year how excited I was to get things for my room. I spent hours looking online for inspiration and to find out what I needed. Now, having finished my first year, I see there were things that I never used and things I'm so happy I brought. Maybe my list will help you!

What to Bring

• Command hooks/strips--These are great to hang up pictures and many other things (get an assortment before you come to Birmingham. If you keep your receipt, you can always return them. Local stores will be out!)
  
• Shower Caddy--These are great for storing shower goods.
• Shower Shoes
• Ottoman--These make it easier to get up onto the bed.
• Extension Cord
• Microwave--Students only need one per room. Determine ahead if your student or his/her roommate will bring it.
• Mini Fridge--Bring one for your student so they can store as much food as they want.
• Closet Organizers--These really help store more items, more efficiently, in the closet.

• Clothes Hamper--If your hamper has handles or wheels, it will be easier to transport to laundry room.
• Steamer--These are better than an iron/ironing board and don’t take up a lot of space.
• House Shoes/Slippers
• Glade Plug ins or Automatic Spray--Samford doesn't allow candles in residence halls so these help make the room smell nice.
  
• Hangers
• Trash Can
• Lysol Wipes
• Blanket--Your student will want one they can have to lay out on The Quad.
• Eno Hammock
  
• Wireless Speaker
• Stapler
• Umbrella and Raincoat
• Suitcase--This is great to have for going on weekend trips with friends.
• Brita Water Filter--I liked using this instead of buying plastic water bottles.
• Business Casual and Business Professional Outfit--Each student should have this to wear for presentations regardless of the major.
• Keurig--Those late-night study sessions make coffee a necessity!
  

  What NOT to Bring

• Printer--Samford gives every full-time student $50 to use toward printing.

• T-shirts--Students will get so many free ones when they get here!!!
• Pets
• Candles--Students will be fined if they have candles in the room.