Move-In Day: Tips for a Simple Start to Residence Hall Life

The start of the semester is just around the corner and we can guarantee your first college move-in day will be a memorable occasion. To help you out, we’ve put together some of our favorite move-in tips from current students at York College of Pennsylvania! Hear words of wisdom firsthand from our Spartans, and get ready to make the move to campus!

Tip 1: Wear comfortable, breathable clothes like activewear

Move-in day might not be the best time to break out those new shoes or your favorite pair of khakis. Comfort is key! Trust us, there will be stairs, lots of boxes, and the August heat. Ava Kensing ‘24 recommends opting for sneakers, a York College t-shirt, and shorts or comfortable pants. She also recommends bringing a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day! 

Tip 2: Visit your room before moving anything in. It’ll be easier to move furniture when there’s nothing else in the room. 

If you toured a residence hall during your campus visit, you know the space to maneuver furniture can be limited. Taryn Cook ‘24 suggests giving yourself the most room possible by making any big furniture shifts before carrying your entire trunk of clothing and supplies in. This will reduce the number of trips you’ll need to make from the car and help you avoid losing things in the shuffle!

Tip 3: Bring cleaning supplies.

Our Facility Services office does a great job cleaning every residence hall throughout the summer, but when you have multiple people bringing belongings in and out of your room (especially if it’s a rainy day), things can get a little messy. Taylor Herr ‘25 recommends packing some cleaning items to keep on hand during move in and throughout the semester. It can be helpful to have a few supplies to clean up dirt that gets tracked in or accidental spills. 

Tip 4: Bring a fan, power strips, and shower shoes. 

We’d consider these essentials, and so would Leanne Gotard ‘24. A fan for the warmer months or to use as a noise source when you sleep is a must. Power strips and surge protectors are perfect for desk areas where you might need to plug in a few things at once. And when it comes to shower shoes, Leanne recommends a simple pair of rubber flip flops! They’re cost effective and get the job done. 

Tip 5: Take everything one step at a time and don’t rush. Even if it seems like you won’t get everything done, you will! 

While your first move-in day will be an exciting experience, it can also be a bit overwhelming. Nolan Smith ‘26 suggests taking the entire day one step at a time. You’ll have Orientation Leaders and Residence Assistants with you every step of the way to lend a helping hand. Our staff and move-in teams are eager to help make the process stress-free for you and your family. 

Tip 6: Don’t move your entire life! Just bring the essentials.  

Nyla Nell ‘26 suggests taking inventory of everything you’re packing. If you don’t think you’ll need it, don’t bring it! Remember, you can always pick up additional items during your next visit home, or make a Target run with friends! Just pack what you need and grab the extras along the way. Nyla also recommends opting for your favorite stuffed animals, blankets, and other knick knacks to help make your room feel more like home. 

Tip 7: Try to be smart and efficient with your packing! It makes it so much easier to move into your room in fewer trips.

Alyssa Bortner ‘26 highly recommends putting some thought into how you pack. Ultimately, packing is really just a big game of Tetris. Think about what items fit together best and win the move-in game by turning eight boxes into four! This will save you trips in and out of your room, and that gives you more time to get settled before beginning orientation activities. 

Tip 8: Read your email. 

Last, but certainly not least, be sure to check your YCP email! Repeat… BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR YCP EMAIL! Our Residence Life team will send important updates about the move-in day schedule and other directions for when you arrive on campus. Make sure you’re as prepared as possible when you get here by checking your inbox often and keeping up-to-date on any changes or important instructions. 

Think you’re ready to make the official move as a Spartan? If you have any questions about move-in day, be sure to reach out to your admissions counselor or the Residence Life Office. We can’t wait to welcome you to campus!