Move-in can be a whirlwind of families, decor, and emotions. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare will make the process of building a new home away from home much easier. In this blog post you’ll find a list of what to and what not to bring curated from the official list by Residence Life, finding your residence hall, and the move-in process. 

What to bring

• Bed
  • bed sheets and pillowcase
  • mattress topper
  • blankets and comforter 
  • pillows
  • storage items 
• Bathroom
  • bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths
  • toothbrush 
  • brush/comb
  • hair styling products / appliances 
  • personal toiletries 
  • bath caddy 
  • shower shoes 
• Cleaning
  • laundry basket
  • bathroom cleaner
  • disinfectant wipes 
  • dusting cloth 
  • sponges 
  • broom/dustpan 
  • paper towels 
• Kitchen
  • microwave safe plates / bowls
  • cups, mugs, glasses
  • thermostatically controlled coffee maker or tea kettle 
  • a few utensils 
• Tools
  • flashlight 
  • batteries 
  • basic tools
  • bike / bike lock 
  • important personal documents (drivers license, passport, insurance documents)
• Electronics
  • lamps
  • headphones 
  • small refrigerator
  • microwave
  • small vacuum 
  • small fan 
  • surge protectors 

What not to bring 

• Candles
• Extension cords
• Curtains that are not fire rated 
• Halogen lamps 
• Incense 
• Any items that require open flames 
• Scented plug ins

Permitted items in common kitchen or apartment kitchens 

• Bread machines 
• Crockpots
• Rice cookers
• Hot plates
• George Foreman Grill
• Electric Skillet 

Move-in process 

New students will make their way on campus to move-in on August 24th from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. You’ll schedule an appointment for during this time frame to check-in before arriving on campus. You’ll need your check-in QR code and health clearance to check-in on campus. The check-in line will begin on Compton Drive. You’ll have a designated color-coded route based on your assigned residential hall. Only one vehicle per family is permitted and must be unloaded within one hour of arrival at the unloading zone. 

Avoiding Stress & Sorrow

Some things to consider when moving-in are what you are moving and the heat. Remember that everything you move into the dorm must be removed at the end of the year. Also make sure to bring lots of water to stay hydrated as it will most likely be a hot day during move-in. 

The hardest part besides moving heavy boxes up stairs in the heat is saying see you later to your family. Remember that you can always call your family and friends and return home during the many breaks. Best of luck new students and welcome to William & Mary!

For more information check out the new student move in site: https://www.wm.edu/offices/step/new-students/orientation/movein/index.php