You won't believe how much time you'll spend telling your new friends about your old ones. It really helps to bring along some pictures of the people and places that mean something to you so that the people you constantly describe them to will have faces to put with the names. It's also kind of neat to have friends in res who will recognize people from your "former life" when they come to visit. And, it doesn't hurt that these items can double as security blankets when you're feeling a little homesick

Camera and film

Unfortunately, way too many of us mounties wait until 2nd or 3rd year to start taking some photos of the people we'll grow to love. A few of my more photographically inclined friends started shooting right from day one of orientation, and flipping through their photos of those first days and memories still makes me jealous. Besides, as mentioned above, it will allow your friends and family at home to have some idea of who you're talking about.

Weather wear

The first few weeks are hotter than hell in res (bring a fan if you're able to) and then, it gets cold fast. Oh, did I mention the rain! Therefore, do not come to Sackville in Sept. without a good raincoat, comforatable sneakers, shorts, big warm sweaters for the cooler evenings and gloves or mittens to use as thanksgiving approaches. Which reminds me, a baseball cap is also an essential, not only for bright sunny days, but also for 8:30 classes when you can't make it to the shower, or have just barely made it out of the shower.

Ear plugs/sleep mask

Not to scare you or anything, but even with the most aimiable roommates and/or floormates, there will be times when you want a quiet dark room to go to sleep in and they have other plans. You won't regret the investment - even if you only use them once, the night before your organic final - believe me.

Nerf footballs, frisbees, baseball gloves, soccer cleats, ice skates, cards, cheesy family board games

It's surprising how many times in your first few months you'll be searching for some free thing to do with a group of friends, and won't have the necessary gear. Very frustrating! Especially since these group activities are the way to meet new people and share great times with old friends. If I had to choose, I'd leave my TV or computer home before I left these residence essentials.

A broom, a Brita, a small pot, and a can opener

Most of the residences are pretty dry and dusty, so bringing along a broom and a water filtering pitcher help keep you happy and healthy (well, at least not dehydrated). And yes, whether you want to or not, you will eventually consume canned spaghettioes (or KD) or the like if you live in res. While you're at it, if you have the space, through in a cookie sheet for good measure.

A calendar

The super prepared people even fill in important dates they might lose track of - birthdays for people living far away - so you'll remember to get those cards off in time. Later, you can fill in major due dates for papers, midterms, and vacations.

A pair of shower sandals

Maintenance does a good job of keeping the bathrooms clean, for the most part, but a pair of flip flops to wear in the shower prevents nasty foot fungus and slips.

Goofy clothing/costumes

It's a pretty good bet that you won't make it through your residence experience without attending a theme party. They generally run along the themes of "70's" "80s" "Halloween" or "Carribean" so if you have any theme-appropriate duds, pack them in with your regular clothes.

Phone numbers and addresses

I'm not only talking about your friends, but also the phone numbers and addresses of any relatives who might live nearby (who you can schmooze and gain free homemade dinners by) as well as the phone numbers of acquaintences at Mt.A or maritime universities who will drive home during holidays in the same direction that you want too (carpooling opportunities).

Office supplies - all shapes and sizes

Bring it all: pens, pencils, rulers, looseleaf, bond, graph paper, construction paper (for decorating, ad lib birthday cards, etc), markers, colored pencils, stapler, scotch tape, duct tape, hole punch, erasers, etc, etc.

Luxury item #1: A toaster oven or microwave

If you have a little extra cash to invest in an appliance that will see you through four years, I'd highly recommend a small microwave or toaster oven for those times when the cafeteria isn't open, or you don't like what they're serving. Plus, these help make the best late night snacks (nachos, popcorn, mini pizzas)

Luxury item #2: A computer capable of running Windows 95

In the war between TV and PC, I'd have to say that having a serviceable PC wins out. Yes, there's the academic consideration, but there is a lot more to it than that. The university is very well networked and tech-friendly, which means that once connected you'll be able to download mp3's (music) chat with friends across campus on ICQ to arrange plans for the evening, receive emails from friends at other universities, and heck, even design your own webpage! Besides, most residences have TV lounges that you can use when you need to watch the boob tube.