You asked:

I have so much more stuff than I did when I moved in! Should I start hauling things home now so it’s not so overwhelming later? What can I do with stuff I don’t want?

I always try to bring as many things home as early as possible. Chances are, the last week you’re at school will be busy with studying and exams, and packing will not be your priority, so you might as well decrease the work now. If your parents or relatives come see you for any reason during the year, send a few things home. Two weeks ago, my family ran a half-marathon near my school, so I sent them home with winter clothes, cooking supplies and books I don’t need for the rest of the year.

As for piles of stuff you don’t want, here are a bunch of options:

• Find a place to donate used clothing or other items you don’t need instead of dragging them home. Check with charities close to campus to see what they will or will not take.
• Give away big things, like couches or minifridges. If you don’t want them, other students probably do. I know people who gave their couches away for $10, provided takers moved them on their own. That took care of transport and all!
• Sell stuff of value. Put up flyers, tell your friends, advertise on Facebook -- most schools have groups for people selling stuff on campus.
• Get store credit for books at a used bookstore, and buy a couple of books you’ll really want to read over the summer.
• Trade with someone if, say, you’re tired of the same old framed posters on your walls. Swap for something that’s smaller and easier to haul.
• Use up all your perishables. If you have food or other usable items, try to use them all before you go home so you’re not carting half-empty bottles of shampoo and such. Give unused items to a shelter for the homeless or battered women.
• Have recycle bags when tossing unwanted items. In the end, a lot of things may end up in the trash, but keep an eye out for recyclables and separate them out.

Name: Liz Cruger
School: College of William and Mary
Year: Senior
Major: Psychology and English lit
Her deal: This is Liz’s second year as an R.A. for freshmen. She is also involved in several campus activities, including pep band and the belly dance club.

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