Freshman vs. Sophomore Year Edition

BY gracie raznick ★ July 28th, 2025

If you’re anything like me, you’re a chronic over-packer — especially around move-in time. Freshman year, this was particularly challenging because I was obsessed with adding to my shopping cart and stuffing more into my bags.

Although I had everything recommended in TikTok “must-have” videos, I quickly realized I had bought and brought so much that I simply didn’t need or use.

While I still can’t claim to be an expert in packing light, I’m definitely changing and limiting some of the items I brought last year.

This article is meant to help anyone at any stage of college. For freshmen, it’s a great guide to what’s actually necessary. And for sophomores, juniors and seniors, reflecting on past packing habits and adjusting your system is ALWAYS a good idea.

1. Minimize your makeup.

I love makeup more than anything, and trying out new Sephora products is the best. But seriously — last year I packed every product I owned, and most of them just sat in drawers untouched. This year, I’m bringing only the essentials. Extra clutter helps no one.

2. Limit the trinkets.

I am obsessed with trinkets, whether it’s ceramic butterflies, silver heart statues or a Jonathan Adler canister — I want it all. But in a small dorm room, all those decorations caused major clutter and took up precious space. Even though I’ll have more room this year, I’m still trying to cut back.

3. Bring command strips and hooks.

Everyone told me to bring these before freshman year, and while I did, I didn’t bring nearly enough. These hold everything from your prints, coats and school tote — you name it.

4. Ditch the coffee machine.

I’m not a coffee drinker, but my roommate and friends said coffee was super accessible in the dining hall and local shops. (Syracuse students can use dining dollars at Starbucks and Dunkin)! A big Keurig takes up space and is nearly impossible to clean in a dorm.

5. Fans — don’t forget them.

As a Syracuse student, I didn’t even believe warm months existed. But from move-in through October, it’s boiling at night. I brought one fan and had to order two more on Amazon. Learn from me.

6. Be mindful with decorative pillows.

I love a cute bed, and I brought a lot of throw pillows. My bed looked great at move-in, but at night, they just ended up all over the floor, blocking my already-limited space. Aim for a cute bed but keep practicality in mind.

7. Skip the steamer.

I insisted on bringing a steamer because my clothes wrinkle easily, but it’s bulky and hard to store. Wrinkle release spray works just as well and takes up way less space.

8. Don’t bring too many bags.

I thought I’d need every kind of bag imaginable. In reality, I only used my school tote and a suitcase for trips home. The rest just piled up and made move-out harder.

While back-to-school is a huge time for promoting products and pushing “must-have” items, only you know what you actually need. Don’t waste time or money chasing every dorm trend that’ll be outdated by November.

Be intentional when you pack. Beyond the Instagram story of your move-in, your room becomes your home. Make sure it’s a safe, clean and functional space (just for you)!

Edited by: Madison Sherman

What I Will and Won’t Be Bringing to College: