It’s August, which means the University is preparing to welcome students for the new academic year! As you start packing for the new school year, consider our tips below to have a green move-in.
Visit Project Move-In
Every spring, Catholic University hosts a move-out donation drive for students to drop off any items they do not want to take with them over the summer. The majority of those items are then offered for free back to students at the start of the following fall semester during Project Move-In. In 2023, an entire 20-foot shipping containers' worth of items such as storage drawers, laundry baskets, lamps, dishes and cups, textbooks, rugs, room decorations, and more were available. Plan to visit Project Move-In every year to find pre-loved items to fill your room. Make sure to read university communications early each semester for details and dates!
Pack Only What You Need
Many college supplies lists include items that you may not need once you arrive on campus, so if you see something you don't think you will use, consider not bringing it. Coordinate with your roommates to make sure you don't bring duplicate items, such as a microfridge or television.
Residence Life recommends students bring items that can fit into a maximum of three 40 gallon totes, two large suitcases, and one micro-fridge, television, and backpack. Taking more than what you need can increase the amount of waste sent to the landfill.
Pack in Reusable Containers and Embrace Multi-Use Items
To minimize the amount of waste generated during move in, pack for school in reusable containers. Pack in sturdy suitcases, bookbags, and duffle bags, rather than plastic bags. Additionally, protect fragile items with items you're already packing. Use towels, clothing, or bedding rather than disposable bubble wrap and packing popcorn.
Flatten Cardboard after Use
If you plan to use cardboard to store some of your items, flatten the cardboard boxes after use and place them in the proper recycling areas. This will help our Facilities team manage recyclables during move-in.
