At the age of 9, I remember sitting on the playground, daydreaming about when I would finally be able to attend my dream college. I didn’t realize at the time that there was even a possibility that I could get rejected, so I kept on dreaming. But, as the years went by, I had the realization that my dream college – Brigham Young University, in Provo, Utah – had a 70% acceptance rate.

Once I realized this fact, I began to understand that I could not simply sit around and daydream about being a BYU Cougar. I dedicated myself to my studies, my extracurriculars and my job, focusing the entire direction of my life on this large goal.

After 18 years of work, tears and dedication, I finally did it. I got accepted into not just my dream college, but all of the colleges I applied to. I went through a thousand emotions the night I was accepted to BYU, but mostly I was relieved that my years of work finally paid off. 

But then the reality of going to college hit me. 

I have to move. And so do all of you, my peers. 

Maybe one hour away, maybe several — like me. But, no matter what, you’re probably moving to a new place — a smaller place. You’ll have to pack and bring things you never thought about — many of which your parents might buy for you right now. 

You can spend hours upon hours Googling packing lists and asking your friends for advice on what to bring or what not to bring. But, when it all boils down, it’s your choice. A few things can be easily forgotten, which are essential for survival in college. 

Quick Tips for packing:

• Buy things when you arrive to save room.
• Use vacuum-seal bags.
• Leave things you rarely wear at home.
• Roll clothes to save space.