1) Take full advantage of that free water bottle, blue recycling bag, and LED lightbulb you got during orientation week.
2) Get your own set of reusable utensils and bowls and mugs. Whether you’re eating yogurt, drinking soup, or dining on ramen, utensils are a necessity! I brought a travel utensil set, mugs, and bowls. I find that I am constantly using them and lending them out.
My prized possessions: A spoon, mug, and bowl…all in one! I give my thanks to the German Club, who was handing out this ingenious invention during a Think Transatlantic event.
3) Put up your shades and get some vitamin D! And switch off that light bulb because you won’t be needing it. You’ll be surprised by the amount of the sunlight that comes in from your window during the day.
Have fun decorating your windows; then put up your shades to show them off!
4) The Move-In Market takes place at the beginning of every year. Brandeis collects used items to resell for incredibly cheap prices. If you go early enough, you can snag crazy deals on pre-loved mini fans, dorm fridges, microwaves, utensils, and so much more. $2 for a coffee maker? That’s what I’m talking about! This year, I managed to get clothes hangers, a large Pyrex bowl that I use every day, and a cute bracelet – all for a grand total of $1. The Move-In Market is a fabulous resource that all students should take advantage of.
5) Avoid using plastic C-Store bags – Bring a reusable bag or simply use your backpack instead!
6) Since 2008, Brandeis offers single stream recycling. That means you can throw all paper products, plastic 1-7, aluminum and glass into the same bin! It’s hassle-free and makes recycling much more convenient.
Truth is I just wanted to show off my panda bear trash can.
7) I cannot reiterate this enough! Reusable bottles are wonderful and cost-efficient assets. Staying hydrated is important, so I fill my bottle up every chance I get. Best of all, it’s completely free! There are water dispensers and bubblers located in Usdan, Sherman, Gosman, the ICC, and in several dorms as well. I recommend using the water dispensers and bubblers at Usdan, Sherman, Mandel, and Gosman; the water there seems to taste better. Anyhow, we are lucky to be in Massachusetts, where some of the best drinking water sources are located.
Clearly my beautiful reusable bottle trumps that flimsy plastic one in every way possible.