A Quick Guide To Moving To University

A Quick Guide To Moving To University
Moving to university is a major step in many young people’s lives. There are a lot of steps involved
in the moving process, which can quickly overwhelm first-time university students, but with a bit of
guidance, this process can become faster, easier and more efficient. Below is a quick guide to
moving to university with as few hiccups as possible.
Pack Like a Pro
Packing is perhaps the most important and arduous part of moving. It requires planning, patience
and organization. Without these things, the process may become time-consuming and stressful. But
there are some tips and tricks that could help you pack like a professional. For example:
Start packing at least two weeks in advance
Create and follow a ‘packing to-do list’ and schedule
Scratch things off your to-do list as you complete them
Get packing materials
Throw away or donate unwanted items first
Pack the most difficult items and non-essentials (things you don’t use every day or often) before
anything else
Some items may be provided by the university or your residence, so only pack the essentials
Obtain a list of the items provided, as well as a list of things you should bring
Ask friends and/or family to help you with your move
Secure a moving van or a car to move your belongings
Clean your space and separate your belongings into categories that include 'throw away,' 'leave
behind,' 'take,' 'donate,' etc.
Label your boxes, don’t overstuff them, use appropriate packing materials (i.e. bubble wrap,
packing tape, etc.), especially for fragile items or electronics and pack heavy items on the
bottom of boxes
Secure Housing
Finding housing is really the first step in the moving process. It is, of course, also the most important
step. But first decide if you want to live in a residence hall or in off-campus student housing. For a
comfortable transition into your new housing, look for places that include the following amenities:
A quiet study space, e.g. the library, study lounge or a quiet room
Proximity to your campus and/or transit
Space for fun and relaxation, such as a games lounge, fitness centre, movie theatre, etc., as well
as quick access to neighbourhood amenities

A kitchen area or cooking space
On-site laundry and parking
Storage
Reliable Wi-fi
A workspace for homework and studying
Security and safety equipment and procedures
24-hour maintenance
Besides offering student-friendly conveniences, your housing should also be stable, in a safe
neighbourhood and secured at least two months before the first semester begins. This will give you
time to become familiar and comfortable with the housing facility, neighbourhood and your
roommates (if applicable).
Introduce Yourself on Social Media
Social media can introduce you to your university and peers before the school year even begins. It
can also offer vital information for navigating the campus, your courses, residence hall and more.
Basically, information found on your university’s social media pages can act as a survival guide for
your freshman year. Not to mention, social media provides a unique opportunity to connect with
your peers, professors and student advisor. In fact, you should connect with your advisor before
starting university. An advisor can offer advice on every aspect of university life, including choosing
courses, joining student activities, finding a job or housing, making friends and so much more. You
can also find ample help and information on campus events at your university’s student union
Facebook page or social media groups.