As we’re approaching back to school time, some of us don’t have to do the uniform upgrades or follow the list from teachers and make sure to bring in 3 boxes of tissue and a pack of Clorox wipes. 😳 Instead we now have college students and that’s an entirely different level of preparation.
We’re heading into YEAR THREE (Whoo Hoo – Homer voice) and I’m super proud of the young adult my daughter is becoming. This year she’s moving into an apartment and although I trust I raised her right……I’m super nervous. But we have to let them grow up and learn the path that has been paved for them in this world. So the best I can do is help with some things. That’s right, Mom ATM enters the chat. But I don’t mind doing this knowing she’s worked hard for tuition at her dream school to be paid for 🙌🏾. THIS is the least of my worries.
Spending two years in on-campus housing, we have an idea of what’s needed and what’s not needed during the school year. And as we move on to apartment living, more specific items will be required for day to day living. Here are our top five items needed for dorm and apartment living for college students.
DORM LIVING
- Cold/Allergy Medicine.
Seasons change fast during the academic year and being away from home means having to attend to health needs on their own. Something we realized at the last minute is being of age to purchase medicine. Because Rhi graduated high school early, she started college under 18 years old. But she still needed to take care of herself when the sniffles came. A few care packages and some good friends helped us through this hurdle. Best practice is to stock up on that first trip to Costco/Target/Walmart so your college student is ready when needed. - Computer/Chargers..
It is a must that some type of computer/tablet is part of a college student’s every day use. With many institutions of higher education moving fully digital, students need a way to review lecture videos and even textbooks. To ensure students are prepared for long days and nights of study and even social media scrolling, plan to have multiple chargers. It can be annoying to unplug your phone and/or computer charger at home to bring somewhere else. Portable chargers are a good way to ensure power as well as maximize space in a book bag or tote. One of our favorites is the FuelRod. It’s a reusable and portable charging system on the go. And if there’s a kiosk near you you can simply swap for a new/fresh rod. - Water Bottle/Cleaning Brushes.
Reusable water bottles and mugs will help with saving money and supports sustainability. But remember to clean your water bottle regularly. Most water bottles will be use for water, coffee, juice, and refilling liquids from the dining halls. It will get dirty. Be sure to clean them regularly so it’s not another reason to get sick.
A favorite brand of ours is Yeti. We use the 18oz Rambler a lot as it keeps drinks both hot and cold, depending on its use. I personally love that I can make a cup of tea at 8am and it’s still hot when I finally get to drink it at 2pm. - Comfortable Shoes.
Most college campuses are large. Students will do a lot of walking on a daily basis. And many don’t switch shoes that often so a good comfy pair is nice. We’re a Nike and Converse family so we do our research on what’s best for the landscape and season. But there are tons of options. Be sure to research and make sure to take care of your feet. - Stuffed Animal You Love.
Sometimes you just need some comfort and a little hug from a plush friend will make it all better. Being home sick is a real thing for first years. Many times, it is the first time being away from home long term. Having something to remind the student of a familiar place can ease the nerves and reassure them that they’re exactly where they are meant to be.
APARTMENT LIVING
- Security.
As young women living alone, making sure your surrounding areas should be one of the top priorities. There are old school options such as adding extra locks to both front and patio doors. Thanks to technology, we are now able to add cameras indoor as well as on the doorbell without needing to worry about hardwiring. The NEST system and Apple’s HomeKit might be the two popular for apartments and those that are familiar with smart home devices. Students can simply add to their phones and/or tablets for an extra level of comfort during the academic year. - Comfortable Bedding.
As a college student sleep may be one thing that is very important but not always maximized. From late night study sessions to fun on the yard, the college experience is once in a lifetime for those that are privileged to it. After a long day, the best place to be in bed. Dorms and first apartments usually aren’t the best so making them as comfortable as possible should be week 1 priority. Many stores will sell the bundle packages of comforters, sheets, pillow shams, etc. These are good for dorms, but when entering apartment life try to treat yourself if you can. A plush mattress pad in addition to a good sheet set with high thread count may make the difference at 2AM. Also be sure to consider the climate of your school. If in colder temperatures, extra blankets might be worth the cost. - First Aid.
You’re no longer living on campus. Which means you are responsible for all accidents and injuries. Knowing your insurance information is just as important as knowing your student ID number. But for those minor situations, keeping a first aid kit in the hallway closet or kitchen pantry will suffice. - Lighting/Rugs.
First apartments can be hit or miss. They will not be like the comforts of your childhood room and may require this and that to get close to your comfort level. There are a lot of apartments that are now no carpet areas. Accent rugs cute but be sure to know precise measurements for your rooms. Rugs are expensive so be sure to check out Amazon as well as the back to college sections in Target and Walmart when available. - Kitchen Essentials.
Last but not least, you gotta eat. While in the dorms, you may have had a reusable to-go box from the dining hall, some silverware, and a cup or two. Now you need it all.
When moving into a first dorm room or apartment, creating a checklist is important. It is a great visual, at-a-glance way to make sure you have all the items you need before and after your move.
As semester start dates are almost here, sending a big congratulations to those that made it this far – students AND parents. We’re proud of you!
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Mommy Daughter Adventures 