As I helped my daughter, Jenna, unpack her things after her freshman year at college last May, I was hit by that unmistakable aroma of teenage life: a mix of unwashed laundry, leftover food containers, and sneakers that had clearly seen better days. If you’re gearing up for your own college drop-offs, here are ten things to keep in mind:
- Don’t Expect a Clean Room: Take a peek at their dorm on moving day, and then consider it a closed chapter.
- Dining Plans? Not So Much: Even with a meal plan, your student will likely blow through their budget on coffee runs, fast food, and takeout.
- Bathroom Mats: Just toss those nice bathroom mats you bought. Opt for cheaper ones that you won’t mind replacing.
- Invest in a Mattress Topper: A foam pad can make a world of difference in their sleep quality. After borrowing Jenna’s for a week, she remarked on how much she missed it once it was gone.
- Bring Trash Bags for a Mid-Year Visit: If you happen to visit halfway through the year, come prepared with large trash bags. You’ll likely find a mountain of snack wrappers and empty drink bottles.
- Safety First: Purchase a secure box for your child and attach it to their bed. They can store their valuables, like laptops and wallets, when they’re out. Theft is more common than you think.
- Access to Grades: They’re now legal adults, and schools typically won’t share grades with parents. Make sure your child understands that if you’re footing the bill, you should be in the loop about their academic performance.
- Forget Care Packages from the University: My daughter was inundated with sugary snacks and junk food and asked me not to send any more after the first semester. Instead, pack essentials like socks and toiletries.
- Stock the Fridge: Fill their mini-fridge with water bottles. It will be the only time it’s stocked!
- Acknowledge Growth: When you pick up your child at the end of the year, remember they are no longer the little kids you once knew. They’ve grown into young adults—though they might still leave dirty dishes in a bag!
Freshman year is a period of adjustment, so don’t be alarmed if it starts off slowly. The real college memories often come during the sophomore, junior, and senior years.
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Summary
As your child embarks on their freshman year of college, be prepared for messy dorms, unexpected expenses, and a shift in your relationship as they transition into adulthood. With the right tools and a sense of humor, you’ll both navigate this significant life change together.
Keyphrase: Freshman year college tips
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