Introducing Her Campus Oregon’s brand new series for incoming freshman “Freshman Survival Guide”. Every two weeks will be a new topic discussing college life, advice, tips and tricks specifically aimed for the University Oregon Class of 2018! Welcome baby DUCKS! First in the series is clothing packing tips:
As females, we have a tendency to over pack. No matter if it is a three day getaway to the beach, a summer vacation across the US, or a simple overnighter, we like to be prepared for any and all situations. However, freshman year of college is not the time to over pack. It is really important to understand that in college, dorm rooms are tiny with even smaller closets. No matter how great of a packer you think you are, there is no possible way you can cram twenty different types of shoes or a million “weekend tees” into a dorm room closet. No need to panic, Her Campus Oregon is here to help you with all of those difficult clothing packing decisions.
Dorm Room Closets are Small
Unfortunately, the truth is that you can’t transport your entire closet from home to your dorm room, there is just not enough space. Although you may think every cardigan is essential, it is not. Now is the time to make a list and lay out all of your clothing pieces you think you want to bring. Visually, it helps to lay it all outr, ather than keeping it all in your closet. This way you can actually see how much stuff you are bringing rather than mentally thinking about what to bring and what to leave out.
Also, there is a great resource on the UO housing website that has pictures and diagrams of all of the different types of rooms for each residence type. Once you find out your room assignment in August, take a look at the website for a great representation of true room dimensions and size.
Less is More
The above being said, only bring your essentials. You have to be realistic and minimize your selection. Although you may love every single pair of your 12 different pairs of jeans, they are not necessary. Think critically about what you are going to wear and how many times a month you will be doing laundry. Also, eliminate multiple similar pieces of clothing; pick your favorite three V-neck’s rather than bringing all thirty. It is important to have a variety of options and range of different styles.
Favorites vs. Expectations
Many women enter college with the expectation that they will change or be different. Yes, freshman year of college is the perfect time to experiment and start a new life. There are plenty of opportunities to “re-brand” yourself and truth of the matter, is it will be some of the best four years of your life. Do not try to alter your appearance drastically: be yourself. Bringing your favorite clothing items that you know you will get use out of rather that those “I MIGHT wear them” pieces such as heels is a smart decision.
I brought five pairs of high heels and pumps to my freshman dorm room- after my mom told me repeatedly not to. I was on a mission; freshman year was going to be a new me, and one that wore heels out to the nightlife scene. Although I told everyone that I was going to wear them all the time, I actually only wore them once during my freshman career. I wore them one of the first weeks out to a frat party, where there was lots of dancing. Long story short, I ended the night stumbling home cursing the entire way with my heels in my hands, never to be worn again. Worst decision ever.
The Essentials
By no means is this list complete, but here are HCO’s picks you shouldnt leave home without:
- Sturdy and warm jacket- it gets cold
- A couple of pairs each of jeans and yoga pants
- Shower shoes… So much more important than heels
- One black skirt or something you can go out in
- Layering pieces you can mix and match
- A variety of spirt wear- Go Ducks!
The Typical University of Oregon Girl
Although the University of Oregon campus has people from many different origins, many of the women on campus tend to wear the same sort of outfits. The typical Oregon girl is often wearing leggings, boots (Hunter rain boots, UGGS, and Frye style boots are most popular) and a North Face rain jacket. These three pieces are essential. Being a “Nike Campus”, active wear is also very popular. True style comes out in the warmer months of spring term, when the weather allows shorts, sun dresses, and tank tops.
It Never Rains In Autzen Stadium
Prepare for rain. Not a light rain, but rain that rains all the time, morning, noon, and night. A proper rain jacket and rain boots are essential. Trust HCO on this one! An umbrella is also a good idea to keep in your backpack on the days you are leaving class and get caught in a rain storm. Always be prepared.
When packing for your freshman years in the dorms remember: bring a variety of clothing options, stuff you will actual wear, and not your entire closet. If it comes down to it, your parents can mail you what you really need.
Stay tuned for Tips in Dorm Room Décor and Essentials next in our Incoming Freshman Series.