A way to lessen a student’s stress during the first days of collegiate life
is to supply your child with objects that make new students feel comfortable in
unfamiliar surroundings. Have your soon-to-be college student prepare a “needs”
checklist. Together, review the list and decide which items are necessities.
Next fill the list, pack the car and bring the products along with you to campus
on move-in day. These items will help soothe the student’s nerves and allow your
son or daughter to easily adapt to the rapid changes of college life.
To help you get started, below is a list of products to consider when
reviewing your student’s “needs” checklist. Many of these items also make
outstanding graduation gifts:
Frames -- Stocked with photos of family and friends, frames can bring
a touch of home to campus. Plus, pictures are a great icebreaker and
conversation starter.
Alarm Clock -- You won’t be there to make sure they’re up and out of
bed. A battery-operated version might be helpful if the power goes out!
Entertainment -- College isn’t all about studying. DVD players, video
game systems, televisions and stereos are popular fixtures in college dorm
rooms. Don't forget the items to sit on such as inflatable or beanbag chairs.
Mobile Media Storage Units -- College students frequently cross campus
with CDs, DVDs and video games in-hand. To safeguard these items from harm, a
product such as Vaultz Secure Storage Solutions should be considered. Vaultz
offers an array of sturdy, stylish carrying cases from media binders to CD
wallets, as well as high-capacity CD file cabinets for desks and counter tops.
Each Vaultz product has its own locking mechanism.
Laptop Computer -- Laptops are a college necessity. For in-class note
taking, conducting Internet research and e-mailing, a computer that travels will
help students keep up with all their daily activities.
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) -- One of today’s most popular
technology products, PDAs help students stay on schedule and manage their time
and assignments. A large selection of PDAs can be found at Best Buy, Circuit
City, OfficeMax, Office Depot and Wal-Mart locations.
Kitchen Elements -- The cafeteria is not always open, so having
appliances such as a microwave oven and mini-refrigerator in your dorm comes in
handy. Plus, don’t forget knives, forks and spoons.
As with any situation, if incoming college freshmen are comfortable with
their surroundings, they’ll adapt faster to campus life. And with comfort comes
academic and social success.
