Packing Essentials and Words of Wisdom From Upperclass Students to First-Year Students

As you prepare to come to Syracuse next week, you may be thinking, what do I really need to bring with me to campus? SU News spoke to a pair of upperclass students, Ryan Nkongnyu ’25, a communication and rhetorical studies major in the College of Visual and Performing Arts, and Ryann Washington ’25, a biology and forensic science student in the College of Arts and Sciences, to get their thoughts on what your must-haves should be, what maybe you can leave at home and some other words of wisdom. Here is what they had to say:

What is the most important item(s) you bring to campus with you?

Nkongnyu: My essentials include my laptop, notebook/journal, crocs, headphones, bookbag and pens.

Washington: My essentials include an umbrella, a silicone ice cube tray, velcro strips, a toolbox (which is crucial for move-in day), command hooks, chip clips, a mini fan (for the initial heat of the semester), my insurance card, a small first aid kit, Ziploc bags, shower shoes, a shower caddy and a selection of emergency medications and Vitamin C packets, as many students tend to get sick during the first few weeks. A decent-sized trash can is also key.

What’s your favorite spot to study on campus?

Nkongnyu: I have many hidden spots on campus that I gatekeep, but I’ll name one: Barner McDuffie House.

Washington: My favorite study spot is the third floor of the Schine. It provides a serene environment with an excellent view, making it perfect for focused study sessions.

What is one piece of advice you would give to your younger self when you started at Syracuse?

Nkongnyu: Don’t be afraid to follow your spirit. If you seek it and work toward it, you will make your dream a reality. Destiny can only be delayed but never denied.

Washington: Be more compassionate and patient with my own expectations. College is a significant transition, and adjusting to life away from home while navigating academic challenges can be overwhelming. Remember, one disappointing grade doesn’t define your entire experience—allow yourself grace and take full advantage of the professor’s office hours!

In addition to the great advice from Nkongnyu and Washington on what to pack and what to leave at home, our friends in New Student Programs have put together several checklists to help you pack.

First, let’s start with the list of things you can definitely leave at home:

• Large appliances, including air conditioners (only refrigerators less than five cubic feet and microwaves less than 1,000 watts are permitted)
• Cooking appliances: ovens, hotplates, toasters, toaster ovens, crockpots, grills (including “George Foreman-type” grills) and other similar devices
• Fire safety hazards, like space heaters, candles and incense
• Wall-mounted TVs (only free-standing TVs are permitted)
• Firearms, weapons and fireworks
• ALL general-purpose extension cords (even UL-approved; only UL-listed grounded power strips with built-in fuse circuit breaker are permitted)
• Halogen lamps and multi-head floor lamps
• Large pieces of furniture
• Pets (service or emotional support animals must be approved)
• Expensive or irreplaceable collectibles or jewelry

Next, here are some must-haves to have with you while you are on campus:

• Bedding, including XL twin sheets and comforter and a mattress pad
• Clothing for multiple seasons. Remember, Syracuse is hot in late August, and winter weather arrives just a few short months later. It’s important to have a heavy winter coat, warm winter boots, gloves/mittens and a hat as you navigate campus.
• UL-listed grounded power strip with built-in fuse or circuit breaker
• Personal hygiene items, shower shoes and a bathrobe
• Laundry basket/bag and detergent
• Umbrella with rain jacket and boots

Visit the New Student Programs website for a full list of what you should pack and what to leave at home.