There are a number of things one must consider when preparing to go off to college. This mini-guide is broken up into sections according to the items you need to consider before your college classes ever begin.
1) Packing to go to college.
- If there is any way you can arrange it, you should try to move your belongings a bit early. The less hassle you will have with crowded stir cases and elevators.
- Remember you should never claim a bedroom, a bed or any part of a dorm room until all of the roommates are present. You can still move your belongings in and keep them in their boxes.
- Only pack as much as you realistically need. Do not worry if you forget something since many colleges allow vendors to set-up during the first week or two of school who sell necessary items such as carpets, furniture, and other items you might need.
- Upper-class students will also often sell their gently used items so watch for these sales as well. You can pick up some real bargains.
If you rely on any prescription medications, make sure the Health Office has knowledge of these, provide them with copies of necessary records. If you have chronic or serious medical conditions, make sure the Health Office is also aware of these. You will almost always pay less for your school and office supply items if you purchase them off campus. However, these are available for purchase at the university’s bookstores.
Many colleges do not permit freshman students to bring their car on campus. Make sure you have found out their policy before showing up with your car. It is a better idea to just leave your car at home and rely on public transportation. It will save you in the long run considering you will have to pay for gasoline, auto insurance, parking permit, and the upkeep costs in involved.
2) Money and checking accounts.
Make sure you and your parents have discussed how you will pay for miscellaneous expenses.
It is quite convenient for your parents to open you a checking account at the same bank they do business at. This way it makes transferring money between accounts easier and even faster in times of need.
Learn how to handle your money before you leave for college. Know how to balance your checking account.
3) Orientation.
All colleges hold some kind of orientation to make the transition into college life easier.
You really should make it a point to attend these offerings since they will provide you with much-needed information with things such as learning your way around campus, familiarizing yourself with the clubs and organizations being offered at the university as well as fraternities and sororities.
They also provide the student with an opportunity to meet administrative staff as well as professors and teaching assistants. This is also an excellent time to purchase food passes, college I.D.s, pick up your dorm key and other necessities of college life.
4) Meeting college dorm roommates.
Be sure you meet your roommate and spend a little time getting to know each other.
- Sit down to discuss who will get certain beds or bedrooms or areas of the room.
- Decide on a chore plan so you can keep the room neat and tidy without causing arguments later.
- Take some time to put your belongings away, set up your computer and put your clothes away.
- Get to know the others in your dorm by introducing yourself.
- Give yourself a little time to settle in.
5) Other miscellaneous necessities.
Be sure to meet with your advisor or RA and introduce yourself. Obtain an individual campus map and get familiar with the location of where your classes will be held. Look for the different cafeterias on campus and where the important administrative office is located.
Through proper preparation and giving yourself a little extra time to get set-up and prepared for classes to begin can go a long ways in having a successful year.