Beginner's Guide to Moving to College

Moving to college for the first time is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you are trying to figure out housing, roommates, packing, budgeting, classes, and life in a new city all at once. The best way to prepare is to start with the essentials: choose housing that fits your routine, understand your floor plan, pack only what you need, plan your budget, and get familiar with the area before classes begin.

For students moving to downtown Chicago, location can make that transition much easier. With over 20 schools within one mile, including Roosevelt University, Columbia College, and DePaul Loop Campus, The Buckingham sits at the center of it all, offering student housing by Columbia College Chicago alongside convenience, comfort, and academic success.

What Should You Do First When Preparing to Move to College?

The first thing you should do before moving to college is confirm where you will live, when you can move in, what is included in your apartment, and what you need to bring. Housing affects almost every part of your college experience, from your commute to class to your study routine and monthly budget.

Before move-in day, make a simple checklist that includes:

• Your lease or housing agreement
• Move-in date and time
• Roommate information
• Floor plan details
• Parking or transportation plan
• Required documents
• Monthly rent and payment schedule
• Packing list
• Class schedule
• Emergency contacts

If you are living in student housing, review your floor plan before buying furniture, storage, kitchen supplies, or decor. Some apartments already include more than you might expect, which can save space, money, and stress during move-in.

How Do You Choose the Right Student Housing?

The right student housing should support your academic schedule, budget, lifestyle, and transportation needs. For many students, convenience matters just as much as the apartment itself. Living close to school can help reduce commute stress, make it easier to attend campus events, and give you more time for studying, work, and social activities.

When comparing student housing options, look at:

The Buckingham is located at 59 East Van Buren Street in downtown Chicago, near Roosevelt University, Columbia College Chicago, DePaul Loop Campus, Grant Park, and the Loop. Because the community is one block from public transit, students can get around Chicago more easily without relying on a car.

What Floor Plan Works Best for Your First Year?

The best floor plan for your first year depends on your budget, privacy preferences, and comfort with roommates. Some students want their own space, while others prefer a shared apartment because it can feel more social and cost-effective.

At The Buckingham’s floor plans page, students can explore studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom, and four-bedroom options. Depending on availability, some layouts may offer private or shared room options, giving students more flexibility when choosing how they want to live.

Here is a simple way to think through your options:

• Studio: Best for students who want the most independence and privacy.
• One-bedroom: A strong choice for students who want a separate living setup without multiple roommates.
• Two-bedroom: Good for students who want one roommate and a balance of privacy and shared space.
• Three-bedroom: Helpful for students who want a more social setup while still keeping a smaller roommate group.
• Four-bedroom: Often a practical option for students who want a shared living experience and may be more budget-conscious.

Before choosing a floor plan, ask yourself:

• Do I study better alone or around others?
• Am I comfortable sharing a bathroom?
• Do I want a private bedroom?
• How much space do I realistically need?
• What monthly rent range works for me?
• Do I already know who I want to live with?

Choosing your layout early can also help you avoid overpacking. A studio will require different planning than a shared three- or four-bedroom apartment.

What Should You Pack for College?

You should pack the essentials first, then add comfort items once you know how much space you have. Many first-time college students overpack, especially when moving into a smaller apartment or shared layout.

Because The Buckingham offers fully furnished apartments, students can simplify their packing list and avoid bringing large furniture. Each occupant has essentials like a Twin XL bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe closet with drawers, while apartments also include major kitchen appliances such as a full-size refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, and stove. With free wireless high-speed internet, utilities included, and an in-unit washer and dryer, students can focus more on personal items, school supplies, and move-in basics.

Start with these categories:

Bedroom Essentials

• Bedding for a Twin XL mattress
• Pillows
• Mattress cover
• Hangers
• Laundry basket
• Storage bins
• Small decor or photos

Bathroom Essentials

• Towels
• Shower supplies
• Toiletries
• First-aid items
• Cleaning products
• Hair care or grooming items

Kitchen Essentials

• Reusable water bottle
• Basic dishes
• Utensils
• Microwave-safe containers
• Snacks
• Dish soap and sponge

School Essentials

• Laptop and charger
• Backpack
• Notebooks
• Pens and pencils
• Planner or calendar
• Headphones
• Power strip

Personal Comfort Items

• Favorite blanket
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Umbrella
• Small fan
• Everyday medicine
• Important documents

If you are moving to Chicago, remember to pack for changing weather. You may need light clothes for late summer move-in, layers for fall, and heavier winter gear later in the year.

How Can You Make Move-In Day Less Stressful?

You can make move-in day easier by planning your arrival, labeling your boxes, and keeping important items in one easy-to-reach bag. Move-in day gets busy quickly, especially in downtown areas, so organization helps.

Before you arrive:

• Confirm your move-in time.
• Review parking or unloading instructions.
• Label boxes by category.
• Keep documents, keys, wallet, and phone charger with you.
• Bring water and snacks.
• Coordinate with roommates about shared items.
• Check what furniture and appliances are already included.

Try not to buy every apartment item before you move in. Once you see your space, you can decide what you actually need. This is especially helpful if you are sharing a kitchen or living room with roommates.

For students and families navigating a first college move, features like on-site management and maintenance, 24/7 security, bicycle storage, and 24/7 package pickup can also make day-to-day logistics feel more manageable once the semester begins.

How Do You Adjust to College Life After Moving In?

The easiest way to adjust to college life is to create a routine early. Your first few weeks set the tone for the semester, so it helps to build habits around sleep, studying, meals, transportation, and social time.

Start with a simple weekly plan:

• Walk or map your route to each class before the first day.
• Set regular study blocks.
• Learn where the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and transit stops are.
• Introduce yourself to roommates and neighbors.
• Attend at least one campus event.
• Keep your room clean enough that it feels calm.
• Call or text family when you need support.

Living in downtown Chicago gives students access to restaurants, museums, parks, entertainment, internships, and public transit. The Buckingham also offers spaces that support a balanced student routine, including private study rooms, a free printing center, a fitness center, a student lounge, a movie theater, and a sky lounge with lake views.

For students at Columbia College Chicago, Roosevelt University, DePaul Loop Campus, and nearby downtown schools, living close to campus can make it easier to stay involved academically and socially.

What Should Parents Know About a Student’s First College Move?

Parents should know that moving to college is not just a housing change; it is a major independence milestone. Students are learning how to manage time, money, responsibilities, classes, and relationships in a new environment.

Helpful parent support includes:

• Reviewing the lease or housing details together
• Helping create a realistic budget
• Making a move-in checklist
• Talking through transportation plans
• Encouraging independence
• Letting the student make some decisions

For many families, student housing offers a helpful balance. Students get more independence than they may have had at home, while still living in an environment designed around college life.

How Can Students Budget for Moving to College?

Students can budget for moving to college by separating one-time move-in costs from monthly living expenses. This helps prevent surprises once the semester starts.

Common one-time costs may include:

• Application or housing fees
• Move-in supplies
• Bedding and home essentials
• School supplies
• Transportation to campus
• First grocery trip

Common monthly costs may include:

• Rent
• Utilities, if applicable
• Groceries
• Transportation
• Phone bill
• Subscriptions
• Personal spending
• Books or class materials

One advantage of choosing housing with included essentials is that it can reduce the number of separate items students need to purchase or budget for before move-in. Before signing a lease, students should review current pricing, availability, lease terms, and room options directly on the property website. Since availability can change, checking current student floor plans is one of the best ways to compare options.

Why Is Location Important When Moving to College in Chicago?

Location is important because Chicago is a large city, and your daily routine will be shaped by how close you live to school, transit, groceries, parks, and social activities. A convenient location can make the first year feel less intimidating.

The Buckingham’s downtown location is especially helpful for students who want to be close to the academic and cultural energy of the Loop and South Loop. With Roosevelt University, Columbia College Chicago, DePaul Loop Campus, Grant Park, public transit, and downtown Chicago destinations nearby, students can spend less time commuting and more time settling into college life.

Being one block from public transit also gives students more flexibility. Whether you are commuting to class, exploring Chicago, visiting friends, or getting to an internship, easy transit access can make city living much more practical.

Conclusion: How Can You Feel Ready to Move to College?

The best way to feel ready to move to college is to plan ahead without trying to make everything perfect. Choose housing that fits your lifestyle, review your floor plan, pack thoughtfully, create a budget, and give yourself time to adjust once you arrive.

For students looking for student housing by Columbia College Chicago, The Buckingham offers a central downtown location near more than 20 schools within one mile, including Roosevelt University, Columbia College, and DePaul Loop Campus. To start planning your move, explore The Buckingham’s student floor plans or contact the leasing team with questions about availability.

FAQs About Moving to College

What is the first thing I should do before moving to college?

The first thing you should do before moving to college is confirm your housing details, including your move-in date, floor plan, lease terms, and what you need to bring. Once housing is settled, it becomes easier to plan your budget, packing list, transportation, and class routine.

What type of student housing is best for first-year college students?

The best student housing for first-year college students is housing that fits their budget, supports their study habits, and keeps them close to campus or transit. Some students prefer private studios or one-bedroom layouts, while others choose shared two-, three-, or four-bedroom floor plans for a more social experience.

How early should I start planning my move to college?

You should start planning your move to college at least two to three months before move-in if possible. This gives you enough time to secure housing, review your floor plan, coordinate with roommates, buy essentials, and prepare for your first semester.

What should I not bring when moving to college?

You should avoid bringing duplicate shared items, too much furniture, excessive clothing, and anything not allowed by your housing community. If your apartment is fully furnished, you likely will not need to bring large furniture or major appliances.

Is it better to live alone or with roommates in college?

Living alone is better for students who value privacy and quiet, while living with roommates can be better for students who want a more social experience or a shared-cost living setup. The right choice depends on your personality, budget, and daily routine.

How do I make friends after moving to college?

You can make friends after moving to college by attending campus events, introducing yourself to classmates, spending time in shared spaces, joining clubs, and getting to know your roommates. Community areas like lounges, study rooms, and fitness spaces can also make it easier to meet people naturally.

Why should students consider living near downtown Chicago schools?

Students should consider living near downtown Chicago schools because it can reduce commute time and keep them close to classes, transit, internships, restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions. For students attending schools near the Loop or South Loop, location can make everyday college life much easier.