First kid heading to college? Or maybe it’s your third—but this one packs like a raccoon with a credit card?
We see you.
At Go Long, we know these big life transitions come with even bigger questions. That’s why we bring in real experts to tackle the stuff no one else talks about—health, money, downsizing, awkward convos, and yes…what not to bring to a dorm.
This week, meet Kim Oser, founder of Game Plan Organizing. She’s the queen of calm in the face of clutter, and she’s here to help you pack with less stress and fewer meltdowns (yours or your kid’s).
Because it’s not just about bins and bed risers—it’s about navigating a massive emotional shift with a little more grace and a lot fewer trips to Ikea, The Container Store, The UPS Store, etc.
Let’s dive in.
NOTE: This episode does not constitute a fiduciary relationship of any kind. The topics covered are purely for informational purposes.
About Kim
Kim Oser takes the chaos of everyday life and transforms it into calm, productive harmony. As the founder of Game Plan Organizing, she's been helping overwhelmed individuals, families and small businesses since 2004. As one of the world's first Certified Professional Organizers®, Kim understands how disorganization creates unnecessary stress, whether it's a cluttered office, a senior's important documents, or taking the chaos out of college packing and setting up college living.
She offers compassionate guidance, bringing peace of mind to individuals and families navigating various life stages.
Kim is passionate about helping clients reduce stress through approachable productivity systems. When working with Kim, you're creating more time, space, and money in your life, whether you're a senior simplifying your home or a college student getting organized for their new chapter. Whether your desk is drowning in papers or your life needs decluttering, Kim offers friendly guidance to move from overwhelmed to overjoyed.
PS - We’re going to bring Kim back later this year to talk about downsizing, whether it’s your home or your parents’ home.
Major Topics Covered
Utilize social media and online resources for information.
Coordinate with roommates to avoid overcrowding in dorm rooms.
Understand what is included in the dorm room before moving in.
Maximize vertical space for storage in small dorm rooms.
Consider compatibility factors when choosing roommates.
Use multifunctional furniture to save space.
Ask about package delivery options at the university.
Plan for the essentials and avoid unnecessary purchases. Students often forget essential items for their dorms, but many supplies can be ordered online quickly.
Parents should encourage their children to take responsibility for their own laundry and living space.
Time management tools can help students stay organized and focused.
Trying to force changes and not getting the results you expect? You’re not alone. Be the change you want to see by trying something different.
Quick Takeaways
Kim: Have a plan for what you’re going to do if everything you purchased is NOT going to fit in the room, particularly furniture. Return windows may have been exceeded. Uber rides can get expensive. Do as much homework as possible on understanding what can actually squeeze into the room.
Jill: Check out social media channels for helpful information on what the move-in process is like. Don’t believe everything you read, but you can pick up some tips that may be helpful for you and your teen as they transition.
Trying to force changes and not getting the results you expect? You’re not alone. Be the change you want to see by trying something different.
Resources Mentioned During the Show
Kim’s Three Things You Should Know Before Moving Into The Dorm
Kim’s Five Essential Time Management Strategies for College Students
Ways to Connect with Kim
Ways to Connect with Go Long
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Go Long recommends listening to the entire podcast for context, but knows you are all busy people so below you will see timestamps. This episode is also available on YouTube.
Looking for an accountability partner who isn’t going to judge whatever the habit is that you are trying to change?
Timestamps
00:00: Introduction and Kim's Journey into Organizing
05:27: Starting the College Move-In Process
06:23: Utilizing Social Media for Information
10:03: Understanding Dorm Room Essentials
12:30: Maximizing Space in Small Dorm Rooms
20:08: Roommate Compatibility Factors
24:13: Practical Tips for Dorm Living
26:54: Navigating Dorm Room Essentials
29:04: Understanding College Culture and Supplies
31:50: Dispelling Myths About College Life
35:38: Maximizing Space and Organization
38:48: Time Management and Productivity Tools
43:10: Preparing for Independence in College
45:49: Final Thoughts and The One Thing Parents Forget
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