August 19, 2025 — It’s time to move in, Red Foxes! To help students and families navigate this exciting transition, we asked Resident Directors (RDs) and Resident Assistants (RAs) to share their best advice, from what to pack to how to say goodbye.

Here are 7 insider tips to make your Move-In experience easy and memorable!

1. Make Move-In Day Work for You

Gallery images from 2024 Move-In.

With the right approach, even a hot, busy day of moving can go smoothly.

“Clean and organize the furniture in your space before moving everything in. Then bring the rug, then the rest of your items.”
 - Joseph McCormack '26, Ward Hall RA

“Use heavy-duty soft moving bags with handles. They’re way easier to carry in.”
 - Jayden Melendez '26, McCormick Hall RA

“Emotions are going to be high for many reasons (heat, leaving home, etc.) for both parents or guardians and students. Take a break from setting everything up when you need to. You can take a walk, grab food together, and just enjoy each other's presence during this exciting time!”
 - Kat Speed, Champagnat Hall RD

2. Be Open to Connection Without Rush

Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University. 

Many students feel nervous about meeting new people during move-in, but stepping outside your comfort zone is a key part of the college experience. Be open, don’t be afraid to take the first step, and remember, you don’t need to make all your best friends right away. You can build connections by hanging out in residence hall lounges, attending events, joining clubs, or chatting with classmates before class starts.

“Keep your door open and say ‘hi’ to people while you unpack—it’s one of the easiest ways to make friends.”
 - JT Verdi '26, Sheahan Hall RA

“Everyone is friendly. Sometimes you just have to be the one to say hello and start up a conversation.”
 - Jayden Melendez '26, McCormick Hall RA

“I wish someone told me how tired I would be after moving, so just drink lots of water and take as many breaks as you need. Don’t rush it, you will have plenty of time to meet friends.”
 - Joseph McCormack '26, Ward Hall RA

3. Support Without Hovering

Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

Parents and guardians: your student is in good hands and ready to grow here at Marist. Remember that you can still be an important and supportive presence without doing all the work for them.

“Struggles and inconveniences help students learn how to be an adult. Being a coach helps more in the long run than being a bulldozer.”
 - Sam Bratschie, Sheahan Hall RD

“Let your child take the lead. Letting them set up their space the way they want really helps.”
 - JT Verdi '26, Sheahan Hall RA

“Remind your student that you’re always there if they need to talk. Be patient with them and with yourself.”
 - Kat Speed, Champagnat Hall RD

4. Pack Smart, Pack Light

 
Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

Overpacking is a common regret. Stick to essentials and things that bring you comfort.

“You don’t need every hoodie and sweatshirt right now. If you can get it during Family Weekend or another time, that saves space.”
 - Matthew Eiler '27, Marian Hall RA

“Bring less! Every year I’ve been on campus, I overpack and find myself not ever needing/using half the stuff I bring. It makes the move-in/move-out process a lot easier when you don’t have so much stuff. If you find yourself needing something you didn’t pack, you can always go out and buy it or get it delivered.”
 - Savannah Pinto '26, Lower Fulton RA

5. Don’t Forget the Dorm Essentials

 
Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

It’s the little things that make a big difference.

RA-approved must-haves:

• Mattress topper
• Fan
• Laundry bag
• Cleaning supplies
• Sunset lamp or cozy lighting
• Umbrella
• Waterproof boots
• Snacks
• Hangers
• Surge protectors

6. Get Comfortable with Communal Living

 
Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist University.

Clear communication goes a long way in shared spaces. You don’t need to let emotion build up by not saying how you feel. Have kind and respectful conversations with others in your residence hall to make living together easier. 

“Set boundaries and communicate with suitemates early on.”
 - Jayden Melendez '26, McCormick Hall

“The first few weeks might feel overwhelming, but they’re just a small part of your college experience. Whatever happens, there’s plenty of time to adjust, grow, and move forward.”
 - Patrick O’Brien '26, Champagnat Hall RA

7. The Art of the Goodbye

Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist University. 

Saying goodbye can be tough, so book a reservation for a special meal together before departing, plan when you will see each other or speak next, and embrace all of the mixed feelings.

“Do not stress. The RAs and housing staff will be there for them. This is a time for them to grow and become semi-independent. Do one last meal together and say goodbye.” 
 - Joseph McCormack '26

“Having a planned date for when you’ll see your child next helps ease the goodbye.”
 - Isadora Resende '26, Ward Hall RA

“As someone who moved across the country to be here, saying goodbye to my parent wasn’t easy. To all the parents out there—your child is feeling it all too, the nerves, the excitement, the joy, and the ‘how did we get here?’ moment. It’s natural to worry, but try to lean into the belief that they can do the hard things. Enjoy the journey, and welcome to Marist!”
 - Ivory Unga ’26, Ward Hall RA

Move-In Day is just the beginning. With a little preparation and a lot of heart, you’ll be ready to make the most of your Red Fox journey.