D.C. & Dorm essentials

In just over two weeks, you’ll be moving into your new home for the summer in Washington, D.C.! You might be wondering: what does that new home look like? What should I pack? What else do I need to bring to strive this summer? Look no further! Recent alumni and TFAS staff have compiled everything we think you need to have a successful TFAS summer!

First, let’s lay out what is in your room!

  • Twin-XL-sized bed
  • Desk & chair
  • Closet or wardrobe
  • Studio: full-sized fridge, stove, oven and microwave
  • Affinity Unit: microwave and mini fridge (full-sized fridge, stove, oven, microwave and dishwasher in the shared kitchen)
  • Laundry facilities – credit card (app) and coin-operated

So, the obvious, you need to bring:

  • Twin-XL sheets, pillow, pillowcase and blanket
  • Towels and washcloths
  • Toiletries/Toilet paper
  • All kitchen and bath supplies, including:
    • Pots, pans, baking dishes and cooking utensils
    • Plates, bowls, cups and silverware
    • Waste basket
  • Cleaning supplies and garbage bags

We think you’ll benefit from

  • Desk lamp, alarm clock and school supplies
    • More essentials
  • Iron/ironing board or steamer and hangers
    • Don’t want to show up to work in wrinkles
  • Extra storage
    • You might find your dorm rooms to lack bathroom and kitchen storage – you can always assess and run to a nearby store after you arrive!
  • Mattress topper
    • It is a college dorm bed after all
  • Drying rack for dishes (STUDIOS)
    • In-unit dishwashers are not guaranteed for studio apartments
  • Commuting shoes
    • Flexible flats/sneakers you can easily take on and off and squeeze into your bag
  • An umbrella or two
    • D.C. weather is so unpredictable. Good to have one on you and/or at your office
  • Bin for your food
    • You’re likely sharing a party and fridge with multiple people. Make sure no one eats your leftovers
  • Step stool
    • Some of your cabinets are high, really high! If you’re vertically challenged, this will be useful
  • Reusable grocery bags
    • You’ll likely be walking to the grocery store, and D.C. charges a fee to take disposable/paper bags
      • Bonus points if you opt for an insulated backpack
  • Picnic blankets
    • For your main character picnics on the National Mall <3
  • *BONUS: An open mind
    • You will be exposed to a whole lot of viewpoints and backgrounds in D.C., be open to them all – you might even surprise yourself