Just a year ago, I was scrambling to make sure I had packed everything I would need for my first year at Harvard. Despite countless checks and rearrangements of my parents’ car before our drive from Hebron, KY to Cambridge, the effort proved fruitless—I had package after package of forgotten items arriving at the mailing center through November. While that’s just part of the first-year experience at any school, there are several things I would tell my freshman self if I could go back in time:
DO avoid bulky and unnecessary furniture
During move-out last spring, the trash rooms were piled high with everything from picture frames to bean bag chairs and 10-drawer nightstands. While they can help make a dorm feel more homey, these amenities become a problem at the end of the school year for anyone driving or flying a long distance. Furniture items that can be stored and transported with ease are typically the better option—not only for move-out but for mid-semester room swaps if you and your suitemates make such arrangements. If possible, choose posters over framed art pieces, hanging shoe organizers over shoe racks, and collapsible drawers over sturdy chests.
DON’T forget about tools and gadgets
I was in the middle of setting up my dorm when I realized I had somehow forgotten scissors, batteries, and a screwdriver—all of which I needed to set up my fairy lights. These appliances, alongside tape, cleaning supplies, cold and allergy medications, and even a handheld steamer or lintroller, fall into that tricky category: things you will not need most days but will be a nagging inconvenience to be without when you do.
DO have a versatile wardrobe
The most common thing I heard as move-in day approached was that I would not wear any of the clothes I packed unless they were athleisure or loungewear. In reality, packing what you know you will wear is a safer option than packing an overly compact closet. Harvard’s student body tends to take on a more diverse range of fashion styles, so feel free to wear what you feel most comfortable in. Additionally, relying on the same set of clothing for interviews, nights out, and class attendance is not ideal. With events happening on and off campus throughout the year, having a few extra outfits will not hurt.
DON’T overdo outerwear
In contrast, shoes and coats are bulky and can quickly turn into annoying clutter—not just during move-out, but day-to-day. Despite packing a wide array of shoe options in anticipation of all sorts of outings, I wore the same sneakers 90% of the time. As for coats, keep in mind that Boston’s beautiful autumn breeze will eventually fade into a frigid winter and then thaw into an incessantly rainy spring. A solid winter jacket, a lighter coat or sweater for slightly cool temperatures, and a sturdy umbrella or raincoat should be enough outerwear to get you through the year.
DO be mindful of cords and electronics
Often, you might find yourself needing to charge your entire Apple ecosystem for class. Similarly, you will likely find yourself plugging in every lamp and light source you brought to avoid the harsh overhead light. With that, multi-outlet extension cords are probably some of the most important items to have on hand; keeping one in a convenient spot at minimum is extremely helpful.
DON’T forget to bring a fan (or two)
Harvard’s dorms lack air conditioning, a fact many students lament the first and last few weeks of the year—especially during move-in and move-out. The heat is seldom unbearable, but it can be uncomfortable, and dorms can be stuffy even on Cambridge’s coldest days. Having just a rotating tower fan will vastly improve air circulation, though I also found it helpful to bring a small desk fan.
DO stock up on snacks and quick meals
Whether it be due to joining new organizations (like the Indy!), exploring Boston, or studying, your schedule will vary widely on a day-to-day basis as you adjust to campus life. Sometimes, Harvard’s dining hall hours will not align with your free time, and you won’t always want to spend $20 on a small meal. It is best to have food supplies on hand in case you cannot get to Annenberg in time.
DON’T worry about cooking utensils
On a related note, some first-year dorms do have kitchens available for use, but with every student on a full meal plan and so many restaurants in the Square, cooking is a bit of an inconvenience and can take up quite a bit of time. Pots, pans, and reusable dishes are not too useful in most cases, so leave them behind at home.
DO bring positive energy and keep an open mind
Most first-years end up with at least one roommate. Your dorm room is a shared space waiting to be shaped by the ideas of its residents. For the best experience, it is important to be accommodating, welcoming, and willing to stick to the ground rules you set together during orientation.
DON’T forget about yourself
At the end of the day, my perspectives are based on my own experiences, and each person will have a different one. For eight months, your dorm will be the place you call home. Do not be shy about adding your personal touch to the room, and do what you can to make the space your own.
Britney Ampadu ’28 (britneyampadu@college.harvard.edu) wishes the Class of 2029 an amazing first year!