Here is a list of suggested items that current and past students have found useful during their time at Grinnell. None of these items are required. Be sure to coordinate with your roommate as well!

• Bed linens (extra long twin - 36x81 in)
• Blankets and pillows
• Mattress pad
• Alarm clock/clock radio
• Laundry items (e.g. basket/bag, soap)
• Office supplies (e.g. pens, stapler, tape, dry erase markers)

The weather is typically warm until after fall break. If you are not returning home before Thanksgiving/Winter Break, you will want to include heavyweight jackets, gloves, hats, boots, etc.

• Light and heavy items
• One nice outfit
• Book bag
• Rain gear

• Computer
• Memory stick
• Extension cords/power strips
• Cell phone/charger
• iPod/earphones/charger or stereo/CDs/etc.
• Camera

• Towels and washcloths
• Shower caddy
• Toiletries (e.g. soap, toothbrush, shampoo)
• Medications (e.g. prescriptions, pain relievers, antacids)

• Desk, floor, or clip lamp (halogen lamps not allowed)
• Air/room fresheners (candles are not allowed)
• Fan
• Rug/carpet
• Posters, pictures of family and friends
• Picture hangers, small tacks, or mounting putty
• Cups/mugs
• Small coffee maker or hot plate
• Dictionary and thesaurus
• Daily planner/organizer
• Emergency phone numbers or address book
• Swimsuit

• Medical information
• Two forms of ID (passport, birth certificate, drivers license, social security card) needed for completing forms for work, loans, etc.
• Approximately $450/semester for books
• Approximately $150/semester for other last-minute needs/expenses

Grinnell College takes recycling and waste reduction seriously. One of the largest sources of landfill waste is what students throw out at the end of the academic year. In order to reduce this waste, we encourage students to ask themselves several questions when purchasing items to furnish their rooms. First, "do I really need this item?" If the answer to this question is yes, "is it constructed well enough that it will be worth keeping or donating in a couple of years?" Anticipating the fate of items purchased will help us reduce the number of those items that are thrown in dumpsters. Additionally, many items are left behind each year that could be re-used by students. Those items are saved and will be sold at a flea market sponsored by the Student Government Association during New Student Orientation. This sale includes things like laundry baskets, storage containers, rugs, lamps, lights, alarm clocks, free hangers, and more. Before buying these items new, please stop by the sale at the beginning of the yea r. Although the end of the year might seem far away, planning for it now can make the entire process easier on yourself, your family, and the environment.