Tools

You're the new (wo)man of the house, so be prepared for when things go awry. These are things you may have otherwise forgotten, but you'll be glad you have as the year goes on.

Hand Vacuum

Chances are, you're room will get dirty fast, but face it, you just may not really have the urge to clean your room... If disaster strikes, your RA will probably be able to loan your one, but if not, a hand vacuum is a very handy little tool. Plus, it may provide you with some free entertainment.

Duct Tape

Duct tape is perfect for almost every occassion... it can fix everything from leaks to holes in the ceiling, even your clothes. If you're not sure, just assume it'll make the cut. It's a must have. While we're talking about adhesives, you might want super glue too...

  • Buy it local

Handi-Tak

It's the best way to hang up all the posters you buy, the best of dorm décor.

  • You shouldn't have a problem finding this locally at any office supply store

Sewing Kit

Make sure you know how to sew before you come to college... You'd might be surprised how few people know how to sew back on a button or fix a seam. And how much you could save by knowing a few simple things - guys, it's worth being a little chic sometimes.

Lock Box (Fire Safe)

Don't think that your passport isn't fair game if its hidden in a jumble of clothes under your bed. You might think it's a little paranoid to get one, but a lockbox is a great place to store cash, bank information, insurance cards, your passport or visa, your Social Security card, and anything else you need to keep safe. Ideally, so it's not possible to steal the box, it would be too heavy to carry, but then it would also be impossible to get in your dorm room, so check these out.

First Aid Kit

If you just want to avoid being a regular visitor at the school hospital, or you just don't want to have to walk down the hall every cut you get, consider this.

Swiss Army Knife

A blade with tweezers, a corkscrew, bottle opener, toothpick, nail file, fish scaler, and whatever else your heart desires. How could it not be useful? For the tech savvy, add a laser pointer or flash drive. But you definitely want to make sure your school allows you to bring a pocket knife to school before you go out and get one.

  • Check out the official site or a local store so you can pick out custom features.

Light Bulbs

On the off-chance your school doesn't provide you with light bulbs if one burns out, or you just hate the lights they give you, then grab a few bulbs ahead of time. Make sure you don't get halogens, and check with your RA to see what type and strength of light you need.