As summer winds down, college move-in day is creeping closer. Maybe you’re packing up to move across the country, or just heading a few towns over; either way, the freshman jitters are real! Whether it’s your Ivy League dream, local state college, a private university, or even an unexpected second choice, one thing is for sure, you’ve made it! Congratulations… (woooo). For the Zamazing parents reading this, don’t worry: this guide has tips to help your rising scholar start strong!
As you contemplate what college life will be like, we bet the initial thought that sinks in is, “Who’s my roommate?” If you’re moving in with your best friend or a total stranger, finding the right balance is crucial! Even when it comes to unbreakable friendships, living together is a total different ball game. That’s why we’re here to help you settle in and start off right. Step one? A small gift goes a long way. Let’s talk about why.
Why Thoughtful Gifts Go a Long Way
Who wouldn’t want to make their new roommate smile? A thoughtful gift is the key ingredient to showing them who you are as a person without even saying a word. If you’ve no idea what they’d like, here’s a list of things that will tick many boxes.
- Fun Game or Conversation Starter Deck – Ideal for breaking the ice on day one or killing time between classes. Games give you a low-pressure way to get to know each other – no forced small talk required!
- Wireless Phone Charger or Charging Hub – Nobody wants to fight over outlets. A portable charger or shared power strip is something everyone appreciates, especially during long days on campus.
- Small Whiteboard or Message Board – For jotting down reminders, leaving notes, or doodling something funny. It’s an easy way to communicate (or just bond over random memes and drawings).
- Scented Candle or Reed Diffuser – Dorm rooms need all the freshening up they can get. A subtle scent makes any space more inviting (just check your dorm’s rules on what’s allowed).
- Selection of Snacks or Treats – Food is the easiest universal language. Having a few snacks around can turn “Hey, want one?” into the first step toward a new friendship!
Freshman Essentials
Now that the ice is broken, let’s get into your living situation (dorm life). We’ll break things down to give you an insight of what to expect!
In terms of Greek life, sorority and fraternity recruitment usually happens in the first few weeks of school or during spring semester. Most freshmen won’t live in Greek housing right away – that typically starts sophomore year. So there’s no escaping your roommate just yet!
With all that being said, let’s put a list of essentials together that you and your roomie can share cost on to make things easier on your both and some extra money for the ‘fun’ stuff.
- Mini Fridge – For shared drinks, leftovers, or just not having to sprint to the dining hall for everything.
- Bluetooth Speaker – A neutral, easy way to bond over music. Take turns queuing up songs while you unpack or hang out.
- Privacy Divider or Room Divider – Setting boundaries in a shared living space could make things more comfortable – especially when you’re still getting to know each other.
- Dry Erase Board or Calendar – Good for schedules, notes, or funny messages. It keeps communication open without awkward check-ins.
- Basic Cleaning Supplies – A handheld vacuum, wipes, or broom – because somehow college dorms get messy fast (and teamwork makes cleaning less painful).
- Shared Fan or Air Purifier – Dorm rooms get stuffy. A fan or purifier keeps the air moving—and avoids temperature control battles.
- Shared Streaming Account (or Decide Who Brings the Smart TV/Projector) – Figure out early on if you’ll be binge-watching together. Sharing access saves money and helps build an easy roommate routine.
- Funny Doormat or Door Sign – Shares your personality with the neighbors and sets a vibe from day one!
- Soundproof Panels – For late-night laughs or unexpected snoring – these help keep the noise down!
- Washing Supplies – That’s for both of you and your laundry! Keep detergent and shower basics on hand to share and just restock when they run out.
- Coffee Machine – Last but not least, the ultimate bonding tool for early classes or late-night cramming sessions. Speaking of which, blackout curtains will also serve you well on those long study jams.
To New Beginnings
Now that you’ve survived move-in and started building bonds, it’s time to think about roommate appreciation gifts you can give throughout each semester. Thoughtful gifts don’t need to wait for birthdays or holidays; what about random moments when someone just needs a little pick-me-up?Everyone has different needs, so we’ve put together a few ideas you can mix, match, or take inspiration from. We hope this is the beginning of flourishing friendships for you all in years to come!
The S.O.S Stash
For the roomie who always runs out of essentials. A care basket saves you both from last-minute “Hey, do you have…?” moments.
- Feminine/masculine hygiene products since they always seem to run out.
- Hairstyling essentials to avoid them using yours.
- Antacid, aspirin, or vitamins as you can never have enough of these!
- Walmart gift card so you can eat their food for once!
- Coffee shop gift card as you’re tired of those “I’ll get the next one” exchanges.
The Study Buddies Kit
Because late-night cramming is inevitable – might as well make it bearable (or even fun).
- Matching coffee mugs for all-nighter fuel.
- Study snacks and energy bars.
- Blue light glasses or eye masks for screen breaks.
- Highlighters, Post-itⓇ notes, or digital planners.
- Pillows and blankets for nap time.
- A playlist you can both contribute to for focus or chill sessions.
The Twin Flame Vibe
For the roomie you’ve truly clicked with – the one who’s already starting to feel like family!
- Matching PJs for your endless sleepover parties.
- Permanent bracelets to hone in on how you feel about your friendship.
- Engraved photo frame of the two of you.
- Matching phone cases if you share the same style.
- An experience to remember (concert tickets, dinner out, adventure day).
- Collection of posters and wall signs for your dorm room.
The Social Butterfly Kit
For the one who keeps the dorm fun and the group chat alive.
- Coffee and 20 oz. tumbler to keep them engerized.
- Planner (to balance the social life with class deadlines).
- Fanny pack to keep their belongings safe on-the-go.
- Lawn games you can play indoors or outdoors.
- An Uber gift card for late-night food runs or campus adventures.
- Funny t-shirt that portrays their personality.
So here’s the plan: start with the essentials, split the costs when you can, and sprinkle in thoughtful gifts to make the transition easier on both of you.
And, if your parents keep checking in or want campus updates, whether as proud alumni or just proud parents – send a college gift back home to include them in the journey. We genuinely hope you have the best time in your freshman year, and wish you all the best in your future endeavors!
Hazel is a content specialist that reigns from the amazing land of Cork, Ireland. If her natural red hair doesn’t showcase her Irish roots, her love of humor and spontaneous outbursts would be a clear indicator. When she’s not looking out for her amazing team mates, she’s usually re-writing song lyrics – tirelessly trying to incorporate them into her writing pieces. She has a quirky, lively, and caring personality and her little dog Eddie makes her the happiest overall.
