One of the saddest, most glorious, and monumental days of your life. Move-in day can pack a punch emotionally, mentally, and physically, so it is best to prepared for a long day in the heat and crowds.
What to expectMove-in day can be just as frustrating as it is exciting. Here are a list of items that you can expect on that first day:
- You can always expect heavy traffic on I-57 on move-in day. You can also expect a lot of State Troopers on the road (Usually around Kankakee) waiting to catch you and your lead foot.
- Traffic only gets worse the closer you get to the dorm. Everyone always wants the best parking spot and no one ever understands the one-way streets.
- It will be difficult to find a decent parking space. Don’t park in a No-Parking Zone, they will tow you.
- The dorms with no air-conditioning will be sweltering. Be sure to wear appropriate clothing.
- There will be upper-classmen students helping out with the move-in. Utilize their lifting abilities.
- All of the Champaign-Urbana Wal-Marts, Target, Schnucks, and Meijer will be packed with all of the families that forgot a garbage can or lamp.
Tips
- If you have two cars for all of your ‘essentials’, park one at E-14 or one of the other general parking lots away from the commotion.
- Come very early or in the mid to late afternoon. Everyone seems to arrive between 9 and 2, so try to avoid this time frame the best you can.
- Don’t pack everything you have. The dorms and your cars are only so big. Do not pack your winter clothes or materials you don’t deem as necessary. Have your parents drop off anything you need when they come to visit for a football game or Dad’s Weekend.
- Grab a card and/or I-Guide to help you with the move once you have unloaded your car.
- Do not leave any essentials behind. Avoid the long lines at the stores if you can.
The essentials
These items you will definitely want to have in your dorm:
- A lamp or personal light for your bed
- Your own bedding material
- A fridge (with small freezer) and microwave
- Easy-Mac and an easy to clean bowl and spoons
- Television (you can’t study ALL the time)
- Shower supplies and a shower basket
- Shower shoes
- Towel
- Usual school items
- Computer (We recommend a laptop and a docking station if needed)
- Headphones
- Clothes hamper
- Quarters and detergent for laundry
