The new year rings in the start of the spring semester for many students of the University of North Florida, which means spring move-in day is near. Moving into an apartment can be overwhelming, and this feeling is especially heightened if it's your first time moving into housing off campus. However, these are some guidelines on what to do when you first get to your UNF apartment, ensuring that move-in goes smoothly.
Preparation:
A crucial step for a smooth move-in day is having the essentials of an apartment at the ready. Her Campus has compiled the ultimate packing list for college posted on its website. It includes toolkits, sheets, kitchen utensils, and more. A common mistake made on move-in day is buying everything in Jacksonville. Prepare beforehand because often, supplies are scarce in stores during the beginning of the semester.
If you signed a lease that has roommate matching, try to contact your roommates in advance. By doing so, you can agree on what each roommate can bring to the shared space of the apartment, and if you like decorating, you can start planning with them as well.
Once you arrive:
A recommended first step when moving into your UNF apartment is to clean. Also, be sure to take pictures of the apartment as it was when you arrived. It will come in handy if you have a security deposit as it will defend any damages that may be charged to you later. Additionally, you may want to look for any mold in the apartment so you can immediately contact maintenance.
If your UNF apartment is furnished, deep cleaning is a top priority as much of the furniture given has had a previous owner. Use carpet cleaners, microfiber towels, Clorox wipes, and anything else needed to clean your room and apartment. When deep cleaning, keep in mind nooks and crannies such as fans, air vents, and behind furniture as there is dust built up. For appliances such as the washer, dryer, and dishwasher, buy self-cleaning tablets to sanitize.
Deep cleaning is a lengthy process, but there truly is no way around it. Some apartments may require more elbow grease than others.
Settling in:
Buying groceries for the first time is going to put a dent in your wallet, so buy necessary groceries for the first week and a half. Slowly, you will learn what you like to have around for cooking, snacking, and drinking. If you're meeting your roommates in your UNF apartment for the first time, this is a great opportunity to get to know one another and learn about your styles so you can have fun decorating together.
After the hefty work of cleaning and shopping, procrastination may want to settle in, yet this is the most critical step to start your apartment living off right: unpack and organize. It might feel weird to put all your belongings in a new space but unpacking and organizing can help you familiarize yourself with your new home.
You're ready for the spring semester:
You have done all the work needed to move in; now you can enjoy your new home. If your roommates are students as well, try to bond with them during the UNF's syllabus week. It will create a good relationship from the beginning and may avoid future problems. Take this time to agree on boundaries and responsibilities or get to know them a little better.