by Dana Henderson

It’s a smoldering hot and humid in August. People all around are struggling with boxes. You glance up at the 12 story behemoth in front of you and wonder how in the world you are going to get a whole SUV crammed with stuff up all those floors to your new dorm.

Most incoming freshman try to arrive early for move-in day but advertising senior Luke Potter advises against it. There are better parking spots if you arrive early, but more elevators open up later on during the day, Potter says.

Residence halls are not mansions; so don’t plan on bringing your whole house with you. Frances Mooney, professional writing senior, advises to bring only the things you need. You can always go back and get extra stuff if you need it.

Before you move, contact your roommate. Discuss what you’re bringing and leaving at home. Choose who is bringing a TV and who is bringing a microwave/mini-fridge. It makes things easier than having just one person buy everything.

“My recommendations for move-in day would be to bring a dolly and as much help as possible,” Elementary education sophomore Abby Sonnefeld says.

If you forget any important appliances on your move to OU, don’t fret, you can always rent a microfridge (a fridge and microwave combo) online via Collegiate Concepts Inc. A previously rented microfridge will cost you about $189 for a whole academic year. The link for renting can be found on the OU housing website.

Other than the dreaded chore of having to move in all your stuff, there is a lot of fun to be had on move-in day. On the grassy knoll between the residence halls there is usually free stuff being handed out to students along with special offers.

Looking for a splurge? For only $159, Express move-in will move in all your belongings to your room. Also, for $189 you can drop off a bag of laundry each week for a semester to be washed. How’s that for convenient? All of these services can be found on the University and Student Services Inc. website.