This article is part of a three-part series, “Heading to College,” designed to help you prepare your teens for their transition to independence. In June, we covered essential conversations to have with your incoming freshman and key factors that contribute to a successful first year. In August, we will delve into the practicalities of moving our kids to college, drawing on insights from seasoned parents who have navigated this journey.
As summer reaches its midpoint, the reality of your teen heading off to college may be setting in, leaving you feeling a mix of excitement and mild panic. In just a few short weeks, your high school graduate has a checklist that includes doctors’ appointments, a shopping spree for dorm essentials, and a stack of paperwork that seems insurmountable. Whether it’s registering for the selective service or setting up a meal plan, the to-do list is endless. However, with your teen more preoccupied with friends than forms, you might find yourself questioning how all of this will come together.
But take a deep breath; it will all come together. Even those students eagerly counting down the days until freshman orientation can feel overwhelmed by the changes ahead. It’s common for them to exhibit some less-than-ideal behavior during this transition, which often leads to raised voices and playful threats between you and your soon-to-be college student. Nevertheless, I assure you: it will all work out.
While they may overlook the dentist visit or procrastinate on paperwork, many students are surprisingly engaged when it comes to planning their dorm space. Here are six essential tips for navigating the ultimate back-to-school shopping trip:
1. Know Your Space
Every dorm room varies in layout and size. Before you swipe your credit card, make sure your teen gathers as much information as possible about their new living situation. Most schools provide room dimensions and details on their website. Your teen should find out what is included (like lamps or a desk chair), the size of the closet (to determine storage solutions), and any restrictions on appliances. Additionally, they should communicate with their roommates to coordinate shared items, avoiding duplicate purchases like microwaves or coffee makers.
2. Avoid Paying Full Price
The average family spends nearly $1,000 preparing their student for college, but you can save significantly. Many popular retailers, such as Target and Bed, Bath & Beyond, offer great sales during the summer. Keep an eye out for discounts, coupons, and free shipping options.
3. Free Shipping is Your Friend
Paying for shipping is a relic of the past. Many dorm supply stores now provide free shipping directly to campus. Services like Amazon Student offer college kids free two-day shipping on most products. Retailers like The Container Store also allow you to select items locally and have them ready at a store near your teen’s college.
4. Discuss Medications Before Packing
While your teen may know their prescription routine, over-the-counter medications can be trickier. Help them assemble a basic first-aid kit stocked with essentials like pain relievers and band-aids, ensuring they know how to use each item.
5. Quality Over Cost
College students can be rough on their belongings, so resist the urge to skimp on quality. Investing in durable bed linens and towels might seem pricier initially, but it will save you from needing to replace items frequently.
6. Don’t Buy Everything on the List
Your teen’s college may have provided a dorm essentials checklist, but beware: these generic lists are often excessive. Many items may not be necessary, so sit down with your teen and tailor the list to their specific needs. For instance, if they plan to use available printers and submit assignments electronically, they can skip the personal printer, saving both space and money.
As you prepare for this final back-to-school shopping experience, remember that you’ve been equipping your child for this moment for 18 years. This trip is just one more step along the journey you’ve shared.
You might find yourself standing in the aisle, searching for that one item that will ease your transition. But remember: there’s no object that can rewind time or fill the space they will leave behind.
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Summary
Preparing your teen for college involves understanding dorm specifics, seeking out discounts, and focusing on quality over quantity. By coordinating with roommates and avoiding unnecessary purchases, you can ensure a smoother transition for both you and your student.
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