Packing up a years worth of accumulated dorm clutter is perhaps one of the most depressing activities one can partake in here at Binghamton, even more so than sleeping in all day on those dull winter Bing days.  The heat is at its peak as you scurry about your room, trying to move everything into its proper spot, or rather get everything out of it.  You may come across items that you didn't even know you had.  I actually came across a few unopened bottles of salad dressing that would have been beneficial to me months ago.  But at any rate, it's certainly a grueling task, moving your life here back to your life at home.

My roommate and I have a tradition, dating back to freshman year, in which we listen to the sweet tunes of Billy Joel as we tear down our posters and strip down our beds.  It's truly a bittersweet experience.  Billy helps us get back into that good old Long Island state of mind, while at the same time lets us reflect back on the year.

I find that the easiest way is to just throw anything and everything into garbage bags and deal with it when you get home.        

The process will always seem overwhelming, but with the right spin on it, it can be done without much trauma.  Take it as an opportunity to bond with your roommate, or to ask the hot guys down the hall for help moving those 'heavy' boxes.

I leave you with the wise words of Billy, "This is the time to remember."