Five Essentials for College Freshmen
I’ve moved a couple kids to college now. I’m by no means an expert..especially since all kids are different. But here is what my kids have needed (and used) the most.
One: bedding. Boys don’t care what kind. Sheets work. A fitted sheet and a big quilt make them happy. They won’t wash it all year, but just don’t worry. You can throw them away at the end. Don’t spend too much on them. Girls? They buy sheets, duvet, a throw blanket, and alll the pillows-and really use them! Mostly for propping themselves to look at their phones when their brain is fried from studying, but let them get some pillows. *Bonus points for a cushy mattress topper and mattress pad.
Two: school supplies and textbooks. Again, boys like spiral notebooks and pencils (my son’s actual list he gave me last week). Girls like binders, notebook paper, tabbed dividers, colored highlighters and pens, and post-it pads (and even little post it organizers..). I do want them to be successful, so I definitely buy what they need. Textbooks aren’t always necessary, most instructors let the students know what they need on the first day. *Bonus points for desk essentials like a three hole punch, stapler, scissors, and planner.
Three: electronics. They really do need a nice computer, since everything is typed and/or submitted online. Choose one based on the college they’ll attend and their major. Different colleges have different recommendations (PC vs. Mac). My kids saved their graduation money and worked the summer before college to buy new computers. *Bonus points for a surge protector for that expensive investment, a couple extension cords, long phone charging cord, wireless noise cancelling headphones, and a printer.
Four: backpack and rainy day essentials. Kids on campus need a quality backpack. Choose a good one that pads their laptop, has room for binders and books, padded straps, and little storage sections. They will often carry the same one for four years. *Bonus points: umbrella, rain jacket, and waterproof shoes for rainy class days. We don’t want to give them any reason not to go to class, haha!
Five: daily life supplies. Reusable water bottle, snacks (like nuts or protein bars), 13 gallon trash can and bags, command hooks, hangers, hamper and laundry supplies, towels/washcloths, and personal grooming necessities. *Bonus points: games, playing cards, and/or any ball or frisbee to play with friends. Downtime and social life are stress-reducers.
Anything extra your student chooses with you is fine! Decor? Girls will want monograms, wall collages, drapes, and photo frames. Boys . . they like a map or flag. An X-Box can be a great way to connect with friends. A broom, vacuum, mop, or Clorox wipes would be nice, but don’t be shocked if they go unused. They get busy, and they’re exhausted.
Don’t stress over the little things. If I’ve learned anything . . I know my kids will call or text me if they really need something. That’s a wonderful opportunity to mail them something as a surprise! They love little reminders of home and to know you are thinking of them. I hope your student (and you!) have a wonderful year.
love, mom
