Check Off Your List of Essentials Before Going Back to College in Columbia, MO! Learn More From Our Apartment Complex

The school year is getting closer and closer–before you know it, all your essentials will be packed up and you’ll have classwork on the mind. Whether you’re moving into a new apartment in Columbia, MO, or starting another year in your current complex, preparation will help in smoothing out the transition. Cleaning around the space, making a grocery list, decorating the common spaces, and more can bring you comfort and confidence before another semester. 

From the University of Missouri to Stephens College to Columbia College, our apartment complexes have been a home for countless students and graduates in Columbia, MO. As the first day of class approaches, keep track of this easy guide to ensure your apartment is perfect.

Plan your meals before the college semester starts 

When you’re receiving new homework assignments, clocking into a shift at work, or showing up for club meetings, it can quickly become stressful figuring out what your next meal is on a whim. If you know your mornings will be busy, try meal prepping breakfast and lunch through the week to save time and money. You can cook recipes and keep them refrigerated or put them in the freezer, allowing you to reheat the meals when you get back to your apartment in Columbia, MO. 

Depending on the apartment complex you’re staying in, you should also scope out the restaurants, markets, and coffee shops nearby. In a downtown location such as The Lofts at 308 Ninth or The Lofts on Broadway, you will be within walking distance of several local dining spots and chains alike. With access to our Columbia, MO apartments like Cherry Hill or the Manor House, you can easily shop for quality groceries or dine on delicious takeout.

Organize the study area in your Columbia, MO apartment

Returning to college is all about creating structure. Without consistency, it is much easier to get overwhelmed and disorganized when challenges arise. Think of where you study the most. Do you have a desk, or do you prefer to study in the living room? Whatever you consider your study space, be sure to clean up after yourself, and you will experience significantly less stress in your apartment during the school year. You will need to organize pens, notebooks, chargers, and other supplies in an accessible storage space. If you work at a desk or on your bed, add a lamp for more efficient lighting!

Get to know your roommates living with you in Columbia, MO

Will you be meeting new roommates at your apartment in Columbia, MO? Getting acquainted with this person can make a huge difference in the dynamic, and could even lead to a meaningful friendship as the weeks pass. Once the semester begins, everybody in the apartment may be busy, so it’s always good to break the ice early. During this time, you and your roommates can also discuss how chores will be split and whose equipment will be used in public areas like the kitchen. Whether you’re living in a one-bedroom apartment or a two-bedroom apartment in Columbia, MO, getting to know your community neighbors is also important when living in a complex full of other students and young professionals. 

Tidy up throughout your apartment unit in Columbia, MO

Clear space, clear mind–this motto never fails college students bracing for another semester of lectures, labs, and assignments. If you want to tackle the next semester with confidence, you’ll need to clean more than just your study desk. Wipe down all high-traffic surfaces like kitchen and bathroom counters, tables, doorknobs, and other spots that need it in your Columbia, MO apartment. You should also take the trash out, sweep and vacuum the floors, dust off shelves, wash the dishes in the sink, and catch up on all of your laundry. If you are running low on your go-to cleaning products, organize a grocery trip with your friend or roommate!

Time to decorate! Build excitement for the school year with an apartment makeover

You’ve made it over the hurdle of apartment chores and meal prepping, so now is your turn to have fun and redecorate your apartment in Columbia, MO! A new beginning deserves a new atmosphere to help you anticipate your university experience. Seek out posters, wall art, trinkets, throw pillows and blankets, apartment lights, and more for a customized aesthetic that doesn’t feel like an empty dorm room. Does your apartment unit in Columbia, MO come with a balcony? Get creative with outdoor lighting, tapestries, and more to transform the deck. Just be sure to reference your lease before you start decorating so you don’t have to worry about your security deposit when it’s time to move out.

 

Items to remember in your Columbia, MO apartment for back-to-school

 

Bathroom essentials for a new college semester

From daily showers to your weekly self-care ritual, it’s important to have all your bathroom materials ready for the school year. In addition to personal care items, this is also the space to keep a first-aid kit, cosmetic items, and more. Consider picking up a few essentials before the semester starts, so you aren’t caught unprepared when you’re busy with homework. 

 

• Towels 
• Soap, shampoo & conditioner 
• Makeup 
• First-aid kit 
• Medicine 
• Toilet paper 
• Plunger 
• & More 

Kitchen essentials you’ll need to survive another school year in Columbia, MO

Nothing fuels the brain like a satisfying meal. If you want to stay committed to your weekly menu so you don’t have to worry about dinner plans, make sure you have all your cooking supplies! If you live in a two-bedroom apartment, consider splitting the kitchen utensils and dishes between your roommate.

 

• Small appliances (blender, coffee maker, etc.) 
• Pots & pans 
• Mixing bowls 
• Cooking utensils 
• Silverware 
• Food storage containers 
• & More

Bedroom necessities for a productive semester 

Studying or sleeping, your apartment bedroom will need one last checklist before the fall semester begins in Columbia, MO. As your personal area of the apartment, you’ll have more opportunities to be creative and bring the items that make you feel at home. Decorations, storage boxes, entertainment devices, and more should be included in your plans. 

• Bed sheets & comforter 
• Pillowcases 
• Clothes hangers 
• Storage containers 
• Fan 
• Consoles, tablets, etc. 
• & More

Come Back to College Ready to Go With an Incredible Apartment Complex Like The Lofts of Columbia! Reach Out & Learn More About Our Units

It doesn’t matter if you’re starting your sophomore year of college or working on your PhD. The Lofts of Columbia has an accommodating apartment for every lifestyle and set of needs. If you love stainless steel appliances, roomy kitchens, speedy internet, and more, our apartment complexes will suit you perfectly. Contact us and learn more about our apartment complexes in Columbia, MO.