The limited space can be daunting for incoming residents, especially when living in a triple. After a month of living at UC Berkeley's Unit 3, I determined the essentials and what to delete from your Amazon wishlist.
Initially, bringing a water filter/storage, such as a Brita, seemed silly. However, by week two, I found it to be a secret lifesaver. Access to water fountains and bottled water is either inconvenient or expensive.
Whether you're sick and need to stay hydrated or have a tendency to need a midnight water break, it'll come in handy.
Author's summary: Incoming freshmen need a few essential items for college life.