UofL’s Cardinal Ambassadors explain what they found to be most impactful during their first year in a new living environment. While each student may value one thing over another, it is always a good idea to hear various opinions.

Joshua Kuntz, a junior studying engineering, lived in Kurz Hall his first year. “I would say a stool. A lot of the beds are high up, so the stool can really help.” Several more juniors and seniors also agree that a stepstool is a residence hall “must have.”

Maddy Danzinger, a sophomore, said a rolling cart for groceries was an important item for her. She explains that a grocery haul with lots of bags, and a lot of walking is never a fun trip.

Essentials that made the top list also included: shower shoes, shower caddy, water purifier, sunglasses, a three-tier cart and extension cords.

Although every item can be different for each person, one thing is sure — the first year of college is a time that is never forgotten. The University of Louisville’s residence halls are equipped to make that experience amazing, but the right tools can make all the difference.

Article by Brie Carlini

More than 3,900 are expected to be filled this year at the , marking a record-breaking 97% occupancy rate. Of these, nearly 1,900 first-year students unpacked their belongings in their new college homes this week, contributing to the unprecedented demand for on-campus housing.

UofL President Kim Schatzel and her husband, Trevor, were on hand to greet students and families on  extending a warm welcome to the newest Cardinals.

Lindie Hunter, a proud parent from Charlestown, Ind., is excited and nervous as her children embark on their college journeys. While all of her children will be attending  UofL this fall, only her daughter has chosen to live in the residence halls.

“It’s very exciting but also nerve-wracking. It’s the next step of adulthood,” Hunter said.

She emphasized that UofL’s affordability and free tuition benefit for dependent children offered by her employer  were key factors in their family’s decision.

“We are taking advantage of the tuition assistance,” she said. “I’ve been a student here for two semesters taking classes online and now my daughter gets to experience on-campus life.”

Three first-year students, Massia Diomande, Amy Davis and Madelyne Moser, explored campus after moving into Kurz Hall, a residence hall known for its . These students are all members of the

“I’m looking forward to living with people I’m taking classes with,” said Moser, a Louisville native. “It’ll be a close-knit community.”

Diomande, from Hardin County, shared that move-in went smoothly and she’s excited about her new, comfortable room.

Davis, from Paintsville, Ky., expressed anticipation rather than nerves about the first day of classes. “I’m ready to have a schedule and start going to class,” she said.

Dozens of  have been planned for incoming first-year, commuting and transfer students. Some of the activities include a Cardinal Kickoff Picnic with Schatzel and other UofL leaders; yard games and Bingo Like Never B-4; UofL night at Kentucky Kingdom; sunrise yoga; nachos at Ekstrom Library; After Hours event at the Speed Art Museum; and a Student Government Association welcome lunch.

Classes begin Monday, Aug. 19.

View more photos from Move-In 2024 on .

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