Finalizing your packing list? Here’s a look at some things you’ll need (but probably haven’t thought of), plus some stuff to leave at home.
What to Bring
Fan
All of the dorms and apartments on campus are air conditioned, but it can still get really hot in your room. In addition, some dorms (like Core) only let you set the thermostat within a certain range. A fan will keep you (and your roomies) cool.
First aid kit
You will probably fall or cut yourself at some point. A first aid kit (or at least some band-aids, neosporin and ibuprofen) will be a lifesaver. Plus, having this stuff around will help you avoid a trip to Redfern.
Sewing kit
Put a hole in your favorite Clemson t-shirt? No big deal. A sewing kit, or at least a needle and some basic thread colors, will save the day.
Umbrella, rain boots and a rain jacket
It rains in Clemson a good bit. An umbrella, rain boots and a rain jacket will keep you dry (and also keep you from busting your butt on a slippery Library Bridge). We’d also suggest keeping a plastic bag in your book bag, that way you can put your umbrella in it and keep the rest of your stuff (and the classroom floor) dry.
Shower Caddy
This is a must have if you’re living in a dorm that has a community bath — it’ll help you keep everything organized.
Snacks
Sometimes, you’re just not going to feel like walking to the dining hall. Plus, Schilletter is closed on Saturdays, and campus dining usually closes during inclement weather. Keep some snacks (like granola bars, pretzels, etc.) in your room just in case.
What Not to Bring
Pets
Hate to break it to you, but Fido can’t live in the dorms with you. We’d suggest bringing some photos of your pets to put on your desk instead. However, if you really want a pet in the dorm, fi sh are allowed (as long as the tank is 10 gallons or smaller). If you have a service or assistance animal, contact Clemson University Student Accessibility Services so that appropriate arrangements can be made before you arrive on campus in August.
Firearms, Weapons, Explosives and Flammable Items
Leave the hunting rifles, fi reworks and candles at home — they’re prohibited in university housing. Common kitchen items (like knives, forks and spoons) are allowed, and so are pocket knives — as long as they’re used for their intended purposes. Have a CWP? You’re not allowed to possess concealable weapons in university housing either.
Microwave
If you want a microwave, you’ll have to purchase a MicroFridge (combination microwave/refrigerator). To rent a MicroFridge, go to the Collegiate Concepts, Inc. website. If you don’t want a microwave and don’t want to rent a MicroFridge, you can bring a refrigerator (as long as it’s 3.6 cubic feet or smaller). In addition, you can have coffee makers and Keurig machines in the dorms; just make sure to plug them in directly to the wall and not with an extension cord.
Iron and ironing board
You think you’ll iron your clothes, but realistically, you probably never will. Leave this stuff at home, and instead invest in a small, handheld steamer. Better yet, just use the steam from the shower or a wrinkle removing spray.
Printer
Having your own private printer sounds good, right? Wrong. Not only do they take up a ton of space in your room, setting them up is a pain (especially if they’re wireless) and you have to worry about running out of paper and ink. Save yourself the money (and hassle) and just use the printers on campus instead.
High school paraphernalia
Nothing says “I’m a freshman!” more than this. Leave all of the high school t-shirts, yearbooks, etc. at home. Pictures of your high school friends are totally cool, though. Just about everyone puts those out in their rooms.