Have you noticed all of the school supplies out in stores already? I can’t believe that it’s that time of year again, I mean granted it’s still only the end of July… but still! Anyways, I know that many of you have either kids going to college for the first time this year, or maybe it’s you who is going to college this year. Either way, there is a lot to get ready for. So I put together a checklist for items you will want to have, and also some tips for surviving the first year of college.
College Checklist
Here are a few items that you will want to make sure you have before you start your school year. I’ll list them into categories so that it makes it a little easier to manage.
School Supplies
- Textbooks
- Notebooks
- Laptop
- Mechanical Pencils (these are just awesome in general)
- Black Pens
- Scientific Calculator (if you are taking any math, finance, or biology classes)
- Durable Bag
- USB Storage (Jump Drive)
- Highlighters (multiple colors are always helpful)
- Weekly Planner (ones that plan week by week are perfect)
- Scissors
- Tape
- Markers/Colored Pencils
- White-Out
Dorm Room Supplies
- XL Twin Bedding & Sheets
- Organization Stackers (helps to make best use of small spaces)
- Photos from Home
- Printer (optional, depends if you have access to other printers nearby)
- Mini-Fridge
- Futon or Small Couch (for guests and just for sitting)
- Television (for when you need a break)
- Power Strips and Extension Cords (you never know!)
- Lounging Clothes
Snacks and Food
- Easy Mac – Easy Mac (18 pack) for $9.40
- Fresh Fruit or Veggies
- Bottled Water or Reusable Water Bottle
- Granola Bars (good for quick, on-the-go breakfast or snack)
- School Meal Plan (make sure to set this up before moving in!)
- Crackers or Pretzels
- Oatmeal or Cereal
Health Care
- Emergency Phone Numbers
- First Aid Kit (Here is a Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit for $9.84
)
- Antibiotic Ointment
- Antacids
- Ibuprofen or Pain-Killers
- Tweezers
- Cold Pack
- Any Medications
)Beauty & Body
- Shower Sandals
- Shower Caddy (here is a great one for $6.89 on Amazon – 7 Pocket Shower Caddy Tote (Pink)
)
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Face Wash
- Toothpaste and Toothbrush
- Robe
- Large and Small Towels
- Body Wash or Soap
- Mouthwash
- Brush/Comb
- Body Lotion
- Razors and Shave Gel
- Makeup Essentials
- Deodorant
- Hair Dryer/Styling Items
- Nail Clipper/File (Here is a 10-in-1 grooming kit for $6.99 on Amazon
)
)
)Information For Parents to Have
- Roommate Contact Information
- Student’s Mailing Address (great for care packages during finals or birthdays!)
Information For Students to Have
- Family Doctor Name and Number
- Campus Resources (Clinic, Mail, Fitness, Library Hours, Career Center, etc.)
Useful Tips For Students
Know that going into the first year of college is going to be a big adjustment. With that being said, it’s best to go into it with an open mind (but somewhat closed, to some things…)
- You are going to meet a LOT of new people in the first few days, find something interesting about each one to help you remember their name.
- Take part in as many different socials or events that your campus holds. Whether it’s a foosball tournament, Ultimate Frisbee, Poetry Slam, a cook-out in the quad or just a music event. You’ll meet all different types of people and some of them just might become your best friend.
- Join a group that you’re interested in. For me, this was the broadcast department in the Journalism building. I used to host my own campus radio show, and it was a lot of fun! Plus, it gave me great industry experience that I could never have gotten otherwise.
- Go to class. It’s really tempting (and much too easy) to not go to class sometimes, but trust me when I say that it will come back to haunt you – especially around test times.
- Don’t sign up for the credit cards. You are now an easy target for credit card companies, and believe me they will take advantage of the fact that you love free stuff. But it’s a slippery slope, and that free t-shirt can quickly come with a big debt to pay.
- Find a great group of friends. Don’t settle for a posse who will pressure you to do things, who will mock or hurt you, or to make it simple, just avoid people who might be a bad influence in general. You are who you hang out with, and you’ll become who they are. So choose wisely.
- Have fun. Just be yourself, do what you love, and remember that you are there to not only get a education but to also meet some great people who might just be giving a speech at your wedding someday!
Useful Tips for Parents
The transition isn’t just hard for the students. It’s hard for the parents too. Your baby has grown up and is now preparing to take care of themselves. But before you get that box of tissues out, let me give you a few tips to for keeping your sanity this next year as well.
- Don’t pressure your child to come home in the first few weeks. This is the optimal time that students connect with each other and get used to being on their own. As much as you miss them, and as much as they will miss you, it’s best to get over the initial ‘hump’ on your own and let them fly solo for a bit. You’ll be surprised at the difference a few weeks can make.
- Do give them a call every now and then to see how they are doing. As much as you may think you’re bothering them, the truth is that they will know you care and support them – and that means a lot!
- Understand when they are stressed. Tests, quizzes, homework, and readings can be a lot to take on and while they are learning to manage, it’s likely they will either want to vent or just zone out.
College is a big change, both for parents and the students. I hope these tips are helpful and make the transition a little smoother for you this fall. In the meantime, savor your time together and let’s enjoy the last month of summer 🙂
Hearts,
Sarah
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