Normal

The University is currently operating under normal conditions

Prized possessions See what students made sure to pack

By Jon Gardiner, University Communications and Marketing, Aug. 27, 2026

Each Tar Heel who recently moved onto campus had that one thing they made sure to bring to Carolina, their home away from home.

See what must-have items five Tar Heels took to their residence halls.

U.N.C. Chapel Hill Jack Baliff holding a large railroad crossing sign while standing outside of a residence hall. Pictured nearby and behind him are bags, lamps and a couch.

Jack Baliff: first-year student from Pittsboro, North Carolina

“I have always had a fascination with trains. We found this railroad crossing sign at an antiques store, and I wanted to put it up in my dorm room.”

U.N.C. Chapel Hill student Laney Dial holding a pine needle woven basket.

Laney Dial: second-year student from Pembroke, North Carolina

“This is a pine needle woven basket. I’m Lumbee and wanted to bring some of my heritage with me.”

U.N.C. Chapel Hill student Sidharth Yeramaddu holding a guitar outside of a residence hall.

Sidharth Yeramaddu: second-year student from Cary, North Carolina

“I just recently bought this electric guitar and wanted to bring it with me and learn to play.”

U.N.C. Chapel Hill student Giobanna Franco holding a Teddy bear outside of her residence hall.

Giobanna Franco: second-year student from Omaha, Nebraska

“This is Beartholomew. I’ve only had him for a short time and wanted to bring him with me to Carolina.”

U.N.C. Chapel Hill student Ananya Anchlia holding her ukulele outside her residence hall.

Ananya Anchlia: second-year student from Tenafly, New Jersey

“I ended up on a social post last year while playing my ukulele on campus.”

Back to school 2026