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What to Pack

You'll change rooms every term, and storage areas are limited, so we recommend packing moderately. You can store personal belongings during breaks and over the summer in our trunk rooms, subject to space availability. Our rooms are furnished with basic items, and each student will have a desk and chair, XL twin bed, dresser, mirror, and closet space.

Remember, if you’re attending a sports camp, pack things for sports camp separately from the things you’ll drop off and store in your house for the term.

Below is a suggested list of what to bring, and what not bring to campus. For more information on room set-up guidelines, please see our housing policy.

Basics

  • student employment identification documents for those planning to apply for on-campus jobs
  • plastic tubs with lids for summer and winter storage (bring enough to hold all in your room; designed to keep out mice and moisture) (see sample)
  • cell phone (We have AT&T and Verizon towers on campus; other providers may not get service here)
  • backpack and/or book bag
  • 2 sets of extra-long twin bedsheets*
  • comforter, blankets, and pillow(s)*
  • towels and washcloths
  • calendar and school supplies (pens, pencils, paper, desk lamp, etc)
  • calculator (for math, science, and some business courses)
  • faith-based materials (Bible, S&H, full text, etc)
  • extension cords and surge protectors (must be UL-listed for 1875 watts or greater with a fuse)
  • desk lamp
  • wastebasket
  • clothes hangers
  • laundry bag or basket 
  • liquid laundry detergent (can purchase locally)
  • clothes for all seasons (temperatures can range from 0°F/-20°C to 90°F/32°C with humidity)
  • clothes for special occasions (fun and formal)
  • debit or ATM card (American Express, MasterCard, Visa, Cirrus, Plus, Maestro, Shazam, Quest); or you can get a local bank account when you arrive. The campus store will only accept debit and credit cards when paying for supplies.

TECHNOLOGY

Optional

  • laptop or tablet computer (discounts and recommended systems and software)
  • alarm clock
  • umbrella
  • sports equipment
  • small electronic equipment or appliances (must be 1100 watts or less)
  • mini refrigerators (3.5 cubic feet or smaller)
  • wall hangings (must use wall grooves or moldings to hang pictures and putty-type adhesive to hang posters); tapestries must be fireproof
  • bicycle

Don't bring these! 

  • fireworks (they’re illegal in Illinois)
  • weapons: knives (no blade over 3"), guns (including Airsoft/paintball), etc.
  • alcohol, vapes, cannabis, and tobacco products are not allowed anywhere on campus, including your house
  • hazardous materials of any kind
  • hoverboards
  • large furniture
  • fabric covered chairs, bean bags, or futons
  • refrigerators over 3.5 cubic feet 
  • portable air conditioners
  • candles and incense (no open flames allowed)
  • landline phones
  • toasters, hot plates, popcorn poppers that use oil, air fryers
  • wireless access point, wireless or wired router, or any device that can be configured to offer DHCP service (these interfere with the College network)

*All linens will be supplied for international students.