'Organized chaos': 1,800 students descend on Villanova's campus for move-in day

VILLANOVA, Pa. (WPVI) -- Wednesday was move-in day at Villanova University, and more than 1,800 students, along with their families, descended on the campus to set up their dorms.

"Organized chaos," said Michael Reichartz, who is moving his daughter from Las Vegas to start her freshman year. "But organized is the key."

First-year students from 47 states brought all the necessities to start their college careers, from refrigerators to bedding, after months of planning.

"I hurt my back last night loading the car, so yes, it feels real," said Carolyn Malanowski, who was moving her daughter, Grace.

The mother and daughter had mixed emotions about the big day.

"I've been thinking about this, preparing for it for weeks. There is so much unknown ahead of me," said Grace Malanowski.

After everything is moved in, parents will depart the campus on Thursday, leaving their children to begin their new chapter on their own.

"We actually have time in the schedule for parents to say goodbye to their students. So we want to convey to parents, we know you love them, and it's time to let go," said Kathy Byrnes, the VP of Student Life at Villanova.