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Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Ind.

| For ISU students, about ISU students, by ISU students

Don't be a pack rat, bring essentials

Aliya Khan

Issue date: 6/5/08 Section: Opinion
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Media Credit: Lowell Torres

Media Credit: Lowell Torres

Media Credit: Lowell Torres

Every incoming freshman is given a list of what to bring and what to leave. Take the alarm clock, leave the toaster. Take the extra-long sheets but leave the mattress. However, students most certainly bring more than the bare minimum, something which many regret when the time comes to move out.

From refrigerators to rugs, students scramble to discard extra belongings in an effort to fit it all in for that one last trip home. Here's a list of items that may or may not be wise to drive the extra hundred miles for.

1. The Big Screen TV:
Actually, my advice is to leave anything that has the word "big" in it. People will swear by the big-screen television, and I do admit it has its charm, including instant popularity. It also means increased risk of theft, as well as accidents when moving in and out of the dorms. However, if you do decide to take the big screen, be sure to lock your doors and refrain from moving it around too much.

2. The Bookshelf of Books: Perhaps this isn't a problem for some students, but for those who insist on bringing their entire collection of favorite books-don't. Between homework and meeting new people, you will have very little time for recreational reading. If you do find some extra time on your hands, you can always go to the library. They will more than likely have your favorite books in stock and you won't take up precious shelving space when you are no longer reading them. Bring one or two favorites and leave the rest at home.

3. The Movie Collection:
I know big movie fans who insist on bringing every single movie they own. Now either they will actively watch them all, or they will not touch a single DVD. Both of these options means something is wrong. If you have enough time to watch all your DVDs-twice-my guess is you are not spending enough time studying or even socializing. If you are not watching them at all, then you are taking up valuable space. Once again, you don't have to leave it all at home. Bring the must-haves, rent the rest. If you're too stingy to spend the extra cash, utilize the library. Not only are the DVDs free, they have a great collection with unique movies and you can keep the movies for up to a week.

4. Desktop Computer: I have not known students who do this, but apparently students who have laptops also bring their desktop computer. It's not necessary. Unless you are a fanatic gamer, desktop computers will only take up unnecessary space on your desk, which, trust me, already gets crowded enough. When it comes time to move out, you will be glad to have one less massively heavy object to fit into the trunk of your car.

5. ALL your clothes: With the Indiana weather, I understand the hesitance in bringing only half your wardrobe. Stock up on summer and fall clothes, bring a couple sweaters just in case, and leave most of your winter clothes at home. When you go home for winter break, switch them out. However, keep one coat in the dorm at all times. You don't want to make the mistake of taking it home too early with the fickle weather.

Pack what you think you will need. Then go back and decide what you really need. If you don't have something, chances are you can buy it while you are here, anyway. Remember, most people leave with more than they came with.

(Aliya Khan can be reached at sascamed@isugw.indstate.edu)
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