By the time you read this, I will be starting my first day of junior year (again). At least I know that this time is the last time. It’s the last time I’ll be moving myself to the dorms because I’m getting an apartment next summer. It also marks the start of a new job in Tulsa. This is going to be a big school year for me, but it all starts with moving back in.

Like most college students, I have the list of essentials that need to make it to school with me: my TV, a microwave, my textbooks, clothes. All of these have to get to Claremore on the trip because I won’t be home again for a few weeks. Outside of the essentials, I also have a list of four things that need to be at school with me.

1. Picture of Dad

Last Christmas, Mom found one of my favorite pictures of my dad and me from when I was younger. She placed the photo in a frame, with a note in his handwriting underneath it. When I’m at school, I keep the photo on my dresser so I can see it every morning when I wake up. I also put it in my backpack whenever there’s a storm warning so I can take it with me.

2. Novel-Planning Binder

When it comes to writing, I like to have a plan. I want to know the basic plot, the characters, the setting, and any other important notes before I can start writing. It’s important for me when telling a story to know where it’s going and what I can do to make it get there. I keep all of these plans in a giant purple binder that goes with me everywhere.

3. Shirt Pillow

Dad wasn’t there for prom, graduation, my eighteenth birthday, or moving me into Rogers for the first time. It’s hard not to cry when I hear someone laugh or talk just right or walk into a room and smell his Axe. That’s why I’m so grateful for the pillow Mom made me out of his old work shirt. It’s nice to have it at school when I’m upset or stressed because it feels like he’s there with me.

4. Scooby Doo

My stuffed Scooby-Doo has been my companion for almost every night, every big trip, and every big moment. He’s always been there, sitting on my bed. It’s comforting to walk back to my dorm room and see him. It’s a little piece of home I can bring with me, one that’s been with me for longer than I can remember.

There’s nothing wrong with needing non-essentials while you’re away. Your college dorm room is your home away from home, and you deserve to feel comfortable there. You’ve read my list of things I have to take with me. Is there anything that you have to take when you move back to school this year?