You have swarmed the malls looking for the latest and greatest sandals. Your mother has tackled other parents in Bed Bath & Beyond, attempting to snag the lone blue comforter on the shelf. You listened to your father fume as he lugged a new IKEA bookshelf into your dorm, only to discover that your room comes with a similar wooden contraption. Oh, the woes that come with freshman move-in. Unfortunately, as the semester progresses, you will realize that you are not properly equipped for the doom that lies ahead. Instead of granting you the privilege of discovering that you should have ditched that Vera Bradley backpack at the store, I’ll let you uncover some of the top essentials for a fluid transition into your freshman year below.

The Backpack

Do: Bring a comfortable backpack with padded shoulder straps and a separate compartment for your laptop. While your backpack may appear light when you’re heading out the door for class, you will begin to feel satanic burning and pressure on your back once you pass the South 40. Good options include hiking backpacks, such as the North Face Jester or Borealis. These packs are certified by the American Chiropractic Society and include a lifetime warranty.

Don’t: You are being warned that opting for a Vera Bradley pack or a skimpy Adidas duffel bag will consequent in hours of afternoon back-icing. You should also shred that oversized purse you were planning on using as a backpack.

The Shoes

Do: Invest in practical shoes appropriate for daily use. It’s no secret that you will be spending considerable time dragging your under-caffeinated self to class each day. Shoes with proper support and soles are vital in saving yourself from glorious bunions, corns and bleeding ankles. Nikes, Vans, Converse and Asics are all common treasures sure to give your feet some love. Lesser known gems include Chacos, Sorels, Chukkas and Crocs (to pay homage to your childhood wardrobe).

Don’t: Avoid shoes with soles that are too thin and flimsy, including Toms, sandals, flats and flip-flops. Slide should also be avoided: hammertoe becomes a prevalent issue when your toes are constantly scrunched as you walk. Other culprits include pointed shoes, pointed loafers and heels. Instead, opt for styles with rounded toes and wedges. Also, keep in mind that shoes that are otherwise comfortable may need to be broken in before wearing for an extended period on campus.

The Clothes

Do: While you don’t have to skulk on campus wearing baggy hoodies and sweatpants, try finding pieces that will not cut off your blood circulation. Loose chinos, a cotton button-up or flannel and Sperry Top-Siders are great outfit options for guys, while an oversized shirtdress and Vans will flatter any girl. And yes, you should stock up on more underwear. You probably don’t want to be doing your laundry every few days (or daily if you decide to binge on Chipotle for the whole semester).

Don’t: While you may have decided to reinvent yourself for college, you will soon find your plan to be the Gretchen Wieners of campus foiled. In other words, the stockpile of jean skirts and crop tops in your closet are going to leave you yearning for warmth and mobility in your cold, desolate seat in class. Guys need to also be on the lookout: slim-fit dress shirts and khakis may make you feel like a stud, but you are bound to feel like a suffocated middle-aged father after a few minutes in St. Louis sunlight.  It’s important to remember that when life gets hectic, you will want more laid-back go-to pieces that are quick to pull on in the morning. Save the Instagram-inspired purchases for the weekend.

The Weather Essentials

Do: Be prepared to experience an array of weather conditions. No, is it not always raining in St. Louis, but it’s not always sunny, either. Invest in a compact umbrella, rain boots and a waterproof jacket. Another commonly forgotten item: sunscreen. Tans are great, but wrinkles are not. Do yourself a favor and protect your skin with a UVA/UVB sunscreen. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and aloe vera gel will also come in handy. And finally, we can’t forget winter time. Start looking for a knee-length parka or coat with down filling.

Don’t: Avoid using a thin North Face or peacoat in the winter. You will spend a majority of your class trying to warm up from the brutality outside. Also refrain from using earmuffs, and instead opt for a hat. Earmuffs will allow the dry winter air to get to your scalp, causing itchiness and flaking skin.

The Attitude

Do: Be open to new experiences. Not every situation during your first semester will go as planned, and it is important to be OK with change. While it may be hard adjusting to your new life away from home, you will have a much easier and more enjoyable time making the transition if you approach challenges with a positive mindset.

Don’t: Refrain from comparing your college experience to your high school experience. College is the time for you to explore your talents and to discover yourself. You will not flourish if you are still stuck in your high school bubble. And finally, do not forget: four years will truly fly by. Like Mom and Dad said, make the most of this time.