So, you finally made it to the apartments! Living in your very first apartment is probably one of the most exciting steps toward quasi-independence you’ll make at Skidmore, but it’s also one of the most terrifying – no more unlimited meal plan and you have to clean your own bathrooms.
To help you overcome these hurdles, we’ve put together a list of the 8 things you probably haven’t realized you’ll need in an apartment, based on personal experience.
1. A Vacuum Cleaner
You probably think you can get by without one of these, and you’re probably wrong – especially if you live in carpeted Hillside. You’ll be amazed at how many dry leaves your boots bring into the house. Invest in a cheap one from Amazon and thank me later. (Alternatively, grab a Swiffer Wet Jet if you live in Northwoods)
2. A Brita Pitcher
You probably won’t even realize how badly you need one of these until you don’t have access to one of those filtered water fountains all the time. Just remember to change the filter every three weeks.
3. Wine Glasses
These are so fun to have, even if you don’t drink wine! Make your apple juice feel that much classier by pouring it into one of these babies. Also very easy to wash, which is crucial if you live in Hillside and don’t have a dishwasher.
4. A Printer
Honestly, if you can swing it, just get the printer. Ideally, get one that you can plug into your laptop, because wireless ones kill ResHall Wifi. You won’t want to have to hike to the lib or SAS every time you need to print something for tomorrow’s 9:40 when it’s 1am and 3 degrees above freezing.
5. Spare Blankets
You probably thought to bring throw pillows for your couch and chairs, but spare blankets are just as important. Nothing feels like home quite like having a cozy blanket wrapped around your shoulders while you do your work.
6. Even More Posters
There’s so much more blank wall space in the apartments! Go wall crazy. Posters, tapestries, random pieces of art that you made when you were in the third grade – they all look great.
7. A Toaster
Oh, my god. It’s so much harder to toast bread in the oven than you think. You will set off the fire alarm.
8. Pasta Sauce
I promise you, you will use a lot more pasta sauce than you expect. Stock up.