Parents of College Freshman who are now Sophomores... UpDate 7/28/09

[mouseclick1]

Our reward is Tokyo Disney next year!

That is going to be some reward! My boys just returned from a 10 trip to Japan and had the most amazing time. Though they did not go to Tokyo Disney, they did drive past it and took a few pictures for me. Both boys want to return, but I told them they will have to take me with them next time and we will have to visit Tokyo Disney!

Our yearly cost is also in the ballpark of $25,000. We also want to try to do it without loans, but it will be tough.

 

[madge]

ok ... here's my shopping list ... what am I forgetting, or more importantly, what do I have on this list that DS won't need?

~ bedding (sheets/comforter/pillow)
~ mattress pad
~ towels/washcloths
~ laundry stuff (hamper & tide)
~ ihome alarm clock
~ laptop
~ surge protector/outlet strip
~ small first aid kit (really small - band aids & neosporin)
~ advil
~ vitamins
~ desk lamp (not sure about this one?)


When we get to the school, I'll be making a run to the store for bottled water, some snacks, etc.

 

[Green Tea]

ok ... here's my shopping list ... what am I forgetting, or more importantly, what do I have on this list that DS won't need?



When we get to the school, I'll be making a run to the store for bottled water, some snacks, etc.

Bed Bath & Beyond will let you place your order and specify a shipping date directly to the university. We've done that with the bedding.

 

[mickeysgal]

Bed Bath & Beyond will let you place your order and specify a shipping date directly to the university. We've done that with the bedding.

They also have a tear off sheet of supplies that they college students "need". For those colleges that don't have a BB&B, they'll ship it to the closest store or one you designate.

Is anyone getting egg crate foam toppers to make the mattress more comfortable? Do kids generally get these for their beds? I have no idea how comfortable/uncomfortable the mattress are.

 

[Bella the Ball 360]

OMG - I was fine, fine I tell you!

Then last week we got this letter in the mail with the schedule of move-in day. I was looking at that paper and it said

3pm: Parents leave campus.

I had to go hide in the bathroom so I could cry.

Compare it to the first day you left them in First Grade (I consider that REAL school) and multiply it times 1000. At least when you leave them in school you know you can have them back at the end of the day. It is the end of one type of relationship and the beginning of another and frankly I would take the kid years back in a HEARTBEAt.

I am crying now and my son has been to college and now living on his own for 3 years. I will never forget walking away the day we left him. THE WORST thing was when I would see the Verizon commercial ( about 7 years ago now) that showed the little kid from babyhood all the way to college and Dolly Parton sings "I Will Always Love You" in the background. My husbnd came upstairs and saw me under the covers crying so hard for that one I could not really even tell him what I was crying about. Then in typical male fashion I told him and what does he do...he laughs and says it is just a commercial.

 

[Hedy]

They also have a tear off sheet of supplies that they college students "need". For those colleges that don't have a BB&B, they'll ship it to the closest store or one you designate.

Is anyone getting egg crate foam toppers to make the mattress more comfortable? Do kids generally get these for their beds? I have no idea how comfortable/uncomfortable the mattress are.

These were a must-have when I was at college. They worked better than a featherbed (the other suggestion).

 

[Kath2003]

ok ... here's my shopping list ... what am I forgetting, or more importantly, what do I have on this list that DS won't need?

~ bedding (sheets/comforter/pillow)
~ mattress pad
~ towels/washcloths
~ laundry stuff (hamper & tide)
~ ihome alarm clock
~ laptop
~ surge protector/outlet strip
~ small first aid kit (really small - band aids & neosporin)
~ advil
~ vitamins
~ desk lamp (not sure about this one?)

A lamp is useful; if he has a roommate see if you can get one with several different settings. I had one which had three 'brightness' settings and it's really useful for getting up in the night as the light doesn't 'stun' you!

Vitamins, I really wouldn't worry. Campus food isn't that bad!

I'd buy a squishy laundry hamper, I actually bought a child's toy storer, like this but it's plain purple with some butterflies on it! Squishy is good because you can shove a lot in and also when you don't have much laundry you can shove it under the bed or in a closet or something. Mine was $4. They also have handles on them, so you can drag them right to the laundry room with you.

Also bedding, towels etc. - my Mum literally gave me the bedding from my bed and my towels from home. When I came home to visit, she gave me guest stuff. Clearly in the summer I brought everything home with me so that wasn't an issue. I always took a double quilt (because that's what I had on my bed at home) - better to have too much duvet than too little!

A bin, one which is a solid container, rather than wicker or something. This is a lifesaver - it can be used as a bucket which has multiple uses, not least after a big night out or if you're ill

Hint: you'll need no more than two sets of bedding and two towels, but make sure they're all pretty much the same colour. One of my friends made the mistake of bringing white bedding and black towels = two loads of laundry. Loan him bedding and towels of similar colours and they can be shoved in together.

 

[mickeysgal]

Compare it to the first day you left them in First Grade (I consider that REAL school) and multiply it times 1000. At least when you leave them in school you know you can have them back at the end of the day.

I was thrilled for him when he started preschool, kindergarten, and all day school in 1st grade. I wasn't apprehensive, crying, none of that.

OMG!! What does that say about me!!

But I am struggling with him going to college. I struggle because to me, he's not quite grown up yet. He can wash his clothes, knows how to get up and be on time for a job but not on time for school. Will he make friends and not be lonely? Will he eat right, will he not stay up all night playing video games and skip class, will he ultimately become responsible and take this all to heart and make the most of the college opportunity he's been given? Will he get sick and not know how to take care of himself. All these type of questions.

Somethings you learn by having to plunge through the experience - I get that, I really do.

Last Oct. he was in a terrible car crash (not his fault). Totalled his car and ended up hitting a telephone pole. Not the kind of call parents like to get. He walked away from it unharmed. Thank God for seat belts and airbags. I worry about him driving around campus/town and to/from home on expressways.

Ok, you guys have heard enough from me...

 

[CarolG]

ok ... here's my shopping list ... what am I forgetting, or more importantly, what do I have on this list that DS won't need?

The Housing department at the college/university probably has a list of what students should bring with them as well as things that aren't allowed. Here's the list from my son's school (he's now a junior and has moved off-campus). Some of the stuff on the list depends on whether the student is in an apartment-style dorm or traditional room.

What do I need for my bed?
• Sheets (twin, twin extra long, or full?)
• Pillow and Pillowcase
• Bedspread or comforter
• Mattress Pad
• Blanket
• Egg Crate (foam mattress topper) - both of our sons used these

Electrical items that you are allowed to bring:
• Radio/stereo/CD Player
• Iron with automatic cut-off
• Study lamp
• Sealed unit coffee maker
• TV, DVD, VCR, video games
• Computer, printer, and accessories
• One Power strip (UL approved)
• Hot pot
• Hair dryer, curling iron, etc.
• Fan
• George Foreman Grill (Not allowed in some dorms)

Suggestions for room decorating:
• Carpet or a rug (if room isn't carpeted)
• Matching bedspreads or comforters
• Closet curtain (for traditional-style dorm rooms)
• Posters (poster putty only, no nails)
• Pictures of family and friends
• Memo board for door (dry erase boards are popular)
• Storage boxes (under the bed, drawers on wheels, tubs, etc.)

Personal items you may want to bring:
• Flip-flops (for shower)
• Raincoat
• Towels, washcloths
• Umbrella
• Jacket
• Toiletries

Miscellaneous suggestions:
• Bike with U lock
• Ironing board (if not provided)
• Telephone and answering machine
• Clock radio
• Laundry Basket
• Change for laundry if required (some are free)
• Trash can
• Broom and basic cleaning supplies
• Shower caddy or bucket
• Extra set of car keys
• Health insurance information
• Basic cooking supplies and dishes
• Phone card or cell phone
• Small screwdriver
• Combination lock for storage drawer/closet in room
• Laundry detergent and dryer sheets
• Clothes hangers
• Sports equipment (no paintball gear)
• Flashlight
• Social Security card
• Address book of family and friends, w/ e-mail addresses

School supplies:
• 3-ring blinders and notebook paper
• Composition books
• Pens and pencils
• Highlighters, markers, and Sharpies
• Computer disks (CD-ROM, 2-inch, Zip Disks)
• Paper Clips
• Post-it Notes
• Index cards (3x5 for flash cards)
• Stapler and staples
• Scissors
• Backpack/Bookbag
• Tape
• Glue or rubber cement
• Folders
• Indexed dividers
• Three-hole punch
• Calendar or appointment book
• Calculator (TI-83 is generally required)
• Desk Lamp (if not built-in)
• Ruler or straight edge
• USB Memory Drive

Additional items for students living in apartments:
• Pots and pans
• Plastic storage containers
• Dish towels
• Silverware
• Cups and glasses
• Bathroom and kitchen mats/rugs
• Dishes
• Cleaning supplies
• Paper Towels
• Cooking utensils
• Toilet paper
• Dishwashing detergent
• Shower curtain and rings

Things to leave at home:
• Netting, parachutes, and large flags or other large fabric items used for decorations
• Animals (except service animals and fish in 10 gallon or less aquarium)
• Shot glasses and/or other alcohol paraphernalia
• Candles, incense
• Extension cords
• Electrical decorations (neon signs, etc.)
• Charcoal, electric, and gas grills
• George Foreman Grills are not allowed in two dorms.
• Any electrical item that is not in good condition
• Microfridges/refrigerators (provided in all housing)
• Portable heaters and air conditioners
• Martial Arts equipment, guns, and other weapons
• Toaster ovens
• Electrical frying pans
• Deep fryers
• Halogen lamps
• Microwaves

How to pack:
• Pack things that you’ll need immediately in small suitcases or duffel bags (This makes for easy access). You may also pack items in crates or plastic storage bins, which can be used for decoration and storage in your room. Engrave your driver’s license number on all your valuables — TV, DVD player, bicycle, and your computer are just a few items you should consider. Engravers may be checked out from your resident hall office.
• Label all boxes as you pack them. When you are ready to unpack contents, you’ll know what’s where. If you are shipping items, write the contents on the inside flap of the box. Be sure to ship items to your P.O Box, not University Housing.

 

[mouseclick1]

I think what I'll do is send DS up with the minimum to get him started. I don't want to send him up with too much and then realize he doesn't have the space or need half of it. Since he is only 45 minutes from home, it would be easy to bring it to him anytime. Plus, that'll give me an excuse to go see him without looking overly protective!

I am really bummed about his move in day and I'm not sure how that is going to work out yet. I'm a teacher, and that is the Thursday before school starts for me. It is considered a mandatory working day, where we are not allowed to use personal business days or vacation days. My principal is such a great person though, and I know he will work with me if there is a way out. He also has a child starting college this year (though it is his last of 4 kids), so he should be pretty understanding about it. I will be crushed if I can't go up and help him move in.

 

[madge]

A lamp is useful; if he has a roommate see if you can get one with several different settings. I had one which had three 'brightness' settings and it's really useful for getting up in the night as the light doesn't 'stun' you!

Vitamins, I really wouldn't worry. Campus food isn't that bad!

I'd buy a squishy laundry hamper, I actually bought a child's toy storer, like this but it's plain purple with some butterflies on it! Squishy is good because you can shove a lot in and also when you don't have much laundry you can shove it under the bed or in a closet or something. Mine was $4. They also have handles on them, so you can drag them right to the laundry room with you.

Also bedding, towels etc. - my Mum literally gave me the bedding from my bed and my towels from home. When I came home to visit, she gave me guest stuff. Clearly in the summer I brought everything home with me so that wasn't an issue. I always took a double quilt (because that's what I had on my bed at home) - better to have too much duvet than too little!

A bin, one which is a solid container, rather than wicker or something. This is a lifesaver - it can be used as a bucket which has multiple uses, not least after a big night out or if you're ill

Hint: you'll need no more than two sets of bedding and two towels, but make sure they're all pretty much the same colour. One of my friends made the mistake of bringing white bedding and black towels = two loads of laundry. Loan him bedding and towels of similar colours and they can be shoved in together.

thanks for the tips! I hadn't thought about a lamp with settings - DS does have a roommate!

We're stuck with getting new bedding, the beds are twin sized, and 3 of our 4 beds are full-sized. DS little sister has a twin, but I don't think that he wants pink sheets

Sending vitamins will make me feel better - he takes them now, as it is. DS is a horrible eater.

I've seen the lists at BB&B and Target - for the things to bring to school. A lot of that is marketing, though .. isn't it? I don't want to drag a bunch of stuff along that will never get used.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES. I need to add those to my list. Forgot all about them. duh.

 

[madge]

The Housing department at the college/university probably has a list of what students should bring with them as well as things that aren't allowed. Here's the list from my son's school (he's now a junior and has moved off-campus). Some of the stuff on the list depends on whether the student is in an apartment-style dorm or traditional room.

What do I need for my bed?
• Sheets (twin, twin extra long, or full?)
• Pillow and Pillowcase
• Bedspread or comforter
• Mattress Pad
• Blanket
• Egg Crate (foam mattress topper) - both of our sons used these

Electrical items that you are allowed to bring:
• Radio/stereo/CD Player
• Iron with automatic cut-off
• Study lamp
• Sealed unit coffee maker
• TV, DVD, VCR, video games
• Computer, printer, and accessories
• One Power strip (UL approved)
• Hot pot
• Hair dryer, curling iron, etc.
• Fan
• George Foreman Grill (Not allowed in some dorms)

Suggestions for room decorating:
• Carpet or a rug (if room isn't carpeted)
• Matching bedspreads or comforters
• Closet curtain (for traditional-style dorm rooms)
• Posters (poster putty only, no nails)
• Pictures of family and friends
• Memo board for door (dry erase boards are popular)
• Storage boxes (under the bed, drawers on wheels, tubs, etc.)

Personal items you may want to bring:
• Flip-flops (for shower)
• Raincoat
• Towels, washcloths
• Umbrella
• Jacket
• Toiletries

Miscellaneous suggestions:
• Bike with U lock
• Ironing board (if not provided)
• Telephone and answering machine
• Clock radio
• Laundry Basket
• Change for laundry if required (some are free)
• Trash can
• Broom and basic cleaning supplies
• Shower caddy or bucket
• Extra set of car keys
• Health insurance information
• Basic cooking supplies and dishes
• Phone card or cell phone
• Small screwdriver
• Combination lock for storage drawer/closet in room
• Laundry detergent and dryer sheets
• Clothes hangers
• Sports equipment (no paintball gear)
• Flashlight
• Social Security card
• Address book of family and friends, w/ e-mail addresses

School supplies:
• 3-ring blinders and notebook paper
• Composition books
• Pens and pencils
• Highlighters, markers, and Sharpies
• Computer disks (CD-ROM, 2-inch, Zip Disks)
• Paper Clips
• Post-it Notes
• Index cards (3x5 for flash cards)
• Stapler and staples
• Scissors
• Backpack/Bookbag
• Tape
• Glue or rubber cement
• Folders
• Indexed dividers
• Three-hole punch
• Calendar or appointment book
• Calculator (TI-83 is generally required)
• Desk Lamp (if not built-in)
• Ruler or straight edge
• USB Memory Drive

Additional items for students living in apartments:
• Pots and pans
• Plastic storage containers
• Dish towels
• Silverware
• Cups and glasses
• Bathroom and kitchen mats/rugs
• Dishes
• Cleaning supplies
• Paper Towels
• Cooking utensils
• Toilet paper
• Dishwashing detergent
• Shower curtain and rings

Things to leave at home:
• Netting, parachutes, and large flags or other large fabric items used for decorations
• Animals (except service animals and fish in 10 gallon or less aquarium)
• Shot glasses and/or other alcohol paraphernalia
• Candles, incense
• Extension cords
• Electrical decorations (neon signs, etc.)
• Charcoal, electric, and gas grills
• George Foreman Grills are not allowed in two dorms.
• Any electrical item that is not in good condition
• Microfridges/refrigerators (provided in all housing)
• Portable heaters and air conditioners
• Martial Arts equipment, guns, and other weapons
• Toaster ovens
• Electrical frying pans
• Deep fryers
• Halogen lamps
• Microwaves

How to pack:
• Pack things that you’ll need immediately in small suitcases or duffel bags (This makes for easy access). You may also pack items in crates or plastic storage bins, which can be used for decoration and storage in your room. Engrave your driver’s license number on all your valuables — TV, DVD player, bicycle, and your computer are just a few items you should consider. Engravers may be checked out from your resident hall office.
• Label all boxes as you pack them. When you are ready to unpack contents, you’ll know what’s where. If you are shipping items, write the contents on the inside flap of the box. Be sure to ship items to your P.O Box, not University Housing.

that's quite a list!

this is what DS school says:
What can my son/daughter bring to college?
Stereo, Sheets, Blankets, Book bag, Toiletry kit (shower), VCR, TV, Computer, Telephone, Pillow, Lamp, Posters, Alarm Clock, Umbrella, Flip flops (shower), Carpet (not installed), Refrigerator (less than 6 cubic feet)

back to top

What can my son/daughter not bring to college?
Pets (other than fish), Air Conditioner, Ceiling Fan, Hot Plate/Coffee Makers, George Forman Grill, Toaster Oven, Halogen Light, Lofts, Candles, Firearms/Explosives

back to top

 

[Green Tea]

I felt guilty everyone here was shopping so much so I filled another online cart at Bed Bath & Beyond for the poor kid!

I think we ultimately will have to UPS a lot to campus, along with this delivery from vendors directly to his campus post office. His car isn't that big and I have to fit in too. We won't see the car until May, but we will see the kid before then! Likely we won't see the stuff until graduation. He will have to store over the summers.

 

[dzneelvr]

For DH and I, it's DD's turn to go off into the big college world on August 25. DS is a college junior, so it's empty nest time for us! with both of them out of the house. Honestly, it will feel empty for awhile, but we'll find things to do. All of us are truly blessed to have these kids who will go on to be contributors to the world. And our DS and DD LOVE the annual trips to WDW, so there's always that ahead of us.

 

[phorsenuf]

Just double check what bedding the college has. Most dorms have twin extra long beds and regular twin sheets will not ft!

 

[Bella the Ball 360]

I was thrilled for him when he started preschool, kindergarten, and all day school in 1st grade. I wasn't apprehensive, crying, none of that.

OMG!! What does that say about me!!

But I am struggling with him going to college. I struggle because to me, he's not quite grown up yet. He can wash his clothes, knows how to get up and be on time for a job but not on time for school. Will he make friends and not be lonely? Will he eat right, will he not stay up all night playing video games and skip class, will he ultimately become responsible and take this all to heart and make the most of the college opportunity he's been given? Will he get sick and not know how to take care of himself. All these type of questions.

Somethings you learn by having to plunge through the experience - I get that, I really do.

Last Oct. he was in a terrible car crash (not his fault). Totalled his car and ended up hitting a telephone pole. Not the kind of call parents like to get. He walked away from it unharmed. Thank God for seat belts and airbags. I worry about him driving around campus/town and to/from home on expressways.

Ok, you guys have heard enough from me...

I neglected to add I did not cry when my second one started grade 1! It was a relief! LOL! My second son did not go away to school. He commurtes and I must admit it is much easier for me to know that he is safe every night. With the first one it took about two weeks and then you put it out of your head that something will happen. HOWEVER if you EVER get a phone call in the middle of the night ( wrong number) you will jump out of you skin. My friend always kept an outfit on the chair beside her bed so if she had to run out she would save time by just jumping into her clothes. She did it for 6 years. When her last one graduated she said she was so happy to be able to put her clothes away at ngiht.

 

[My sister's princess]

Pepto!!!!!! PEPTO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't say this enough! School food is NOT moms food and it will make your tummy rumble and not in a good way at least once in a while. Plastic forks, spoon, knives, paper plates, Yes I have the real thing too for some stuff, but I have not made easy mac (the kind in the cup you throw away) because I didn't have a clean spoon

A fish tank is a super fun thing to have in the room, I have a little Mermaid one I got at Petco, and I love just having a pet around, silly as it sounds, having a fish makes it feel a little more like home, because I have something there that connects me

A short list of stupid things I never have enough of and love my mommy when she gives them to me

Tape
Pens ( I lose like 3 a week)
DVDs
Make up (for the girls)
Facewash
Sheets (I hate doing laundry)
Picture frames
Fabreeze
Board Games

What not to bring even though you think you should...........

An iron and an Ironing board, they take up a ton of room, I have a tiny iron I have never used, it was used once by DBF friend to iron his pants for Military Ball, other than that it sits in its box. If DD or DS didn't iron at home they wont at school either

Any clothing that has to be dry cleaned We live in PJs and hoodies. Haha getting dress up is jeans. Super fancy clothes take up a ton of room, and may be "borrowed" But a few nice outfits are a must

Pictures of you drinking with your friends at home Ok RA knocks on your door, and everywhere there are pics of you drinking? Not the best first impression

And a few things not to forget

A super comfy mattress pad I went the extra $$ and got the memory foam, best choice EVER

Hoodies As said above, college students live in these, ones with the school's name on them are amazing, and will be worn till they smell, then for a few more weeks, then they might get washed, if there is room in the laundry.

Extra: Toothbrushes, toothpaste when these get dropped on the bathroom floor you want a back up so you can throw it way



I LOVE WHEN PEOPLE ASK ME WHAT TO PACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Haha tried to keep this shortish for you!

 

[madge]

Just double check what bedding the college has. Most dorms have twin extra long beds and regular twin sheets will not ft!

I assumed DS school would have extra long twin sheets and learned Friday that they have regular twin beds. I was really surprised. LOL.

 

[Kath2003]

Plastic forks, spoon, knives, paper plates, Yes I have the real thing too for some stuff, but I have not made easy mac (the kind in the cup you throw away) because I didn't have a clean spoon

Sorry but there's no way I'd be supplying that, it's wasteful. Supply the basics of regular stuff if they want to make food in their room.

An iron and an Ironing board, they take up a ton of room, I have a tiny iron I have never used, it was used once by DBF friend to iron his pants for Military Ball, other than that it sits in its box. If DD or DS didn't iron at home they wont at school either

I agree; I never used an iron throughout college.

Pictures of you drinking with your friends at home Ok RA knocks on your door, and everywhere there are pics of you drinking? Not the best first impression

 

[My sister's princess]

With the picture comment I should have been a little more specific UNDERAGE drinking. I have walked into rooms with BudLight shrines, and the students want to know why they think we think they drink That is why my school now has a rule that any alcohol container including boxes are treated as alcohol