Thirty years ago or today, college students usually pack something that makes them feel “at home” in their residence hall. Photos of family and friends are often that something. Several members of the Class of 2015 packed some special items. Many of those were made by—or with—a family member. One student wants her room to smell like home; she brought a scent diffuser that is the same fragrance as one used in her sister’s room. One young man from Costa Rica brought his country’s flag and his favorite cookies. (Food is important—a freshman brought special salsa and one woman wished she could bring Amy’s ice cream from Austin, Texas.) Blankets, pillows, trinkets, books, art, souvenirs, stuffed animals, jewelry, collectibles—the list is as diverse as the students. Two young men—both football players— brought quite sentimental items—one, his father’s Navy dog tags; the other, rosary beads that have been in his family for 150 years. Still, the most interesting item might be Jee Lee’s Hello Kitty waffle maker.
The Sherman Museum shared this photo of an Austin College residence room during the 1940s. The items housed in the room likely wouldn’t be found in students’ rooms today—except for the photos of family and friends. Students always bring a little bit of home along.