What Your Student Really Needs for College

If you’re preparing to send a kid away to college, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed. You’re asking yourself questions like What if he needs something I didn’t send with him? What if her roommates have a bunch of stuff she doesn’t have?

I’ve sent two kids off to college. I can say with some confidence that both of these things will happen. I can also assure you that neither one will matter very much.

College has changed a lot since I was a student. I showed up and found out who my roommate was; these days, roommate information is provided far in advance of move-in day. Students can coordinate what they’re planning to bring and avoid crowding their small living space. However, students might also need to bring things along that were provided in the past.

For the sake of keeping this post as uncomplicated as possible–because I know that parents of soon-to-be-college-students are looking for uncomplicated–I’m going to break these suggestions into three lists. And I’d like to point out that “Things your kid will absolutely need” is only 10 items long.  (I’m skipping some obvious things, like clothes and personal care items, because I’m sure you already know they’re necessary.)

There are many “Things that are nice to have,” but also plenty of “Things you probably don’t need to worry about.” If you’re on a tight budget, focus on the “Must Have” list and fill in as you’re able. And keep in mind that every university is different, so check these lists against whatever information has been provided to you.

Must Haves:

Bedding: In Twin XL size.

Bath towels: Two, if possible.

School and desk supplies: Don’t forget scissors, a stapler, and tape.

Toilet paper: If your student is sharing a community bathroom, this will be provided. In a suite-style bathroom, roommates usually provide their own.

Hangers: Buy more than your student needs, for hanging damp laundry as well as clean clothes.

Laundry basket–The mesh style can also be used as a laundry bag (like this one.)

Laundry detergent–Pods are more convenient and lighter to carry than liquid.

Cleaning supplies: At minimum, a dry mop and some wet wipes.

Books: This is not a place to cut costs. Used books are often available more cheaply online than at the campus bookstore. Book rentals are another good option, especially for very expensive science textbooks. Renting books from Amazon is simple and much less expensive than buying, even at the used book price. Chegg is another good source for rentals.

Cut back wherever else you need to, but make sure your student has access to the required books.

 

Nice to Have, But Not Essential:

Items for decorating: Many universities hold poster sales soon after the start of the semester. It’s sometimes possible for your student to volunteer at this sale and get a poster or two for free in exchange for their time.

Laptop computer: Most universities have computer labs that are open 24/7, but having a laptop allows students to get their work done anywhere on campus. Even a very basic laptop will allow students to write papers and turn in online assignments. If this is within your budget, it’s a worthwhile purchase–especially since many courses make use of online materials. That means your student will use a computer now more than ever.

Gaming consoles and games: Students who don’t have their own can often play games with roommates and friends. Video games are a great way to connect with new people.

An extra blanket: For movie nights in the dorm lounge, or just for when the room is cold.

Shower caddy: Convenient for keeping toiletries organized and separated–thus eliminating confusion about whether that shampoo belongs to you or your roommate.

An umbrella: Your student will scoff at this–until the first time they have to walk across campus in the rain. Then they’ll thank you.

A small microwave: For warming up leftovers, making popcorn, heating drinks, etc.

A mini-fridge: For cold drinks and perishable snacks. My son had a mini-fridge that he never used; my daughter used hers all the time. This one really depends on the kid.

Keep in mind that students will have access to a full kitchen in some dorms. If that’s the case for your student, personal appliances may not be necessary.

 

Don’t Worry About:

Rolls of quarters: When I was a college student, quarters were literally the coin of the realm. For my kids, laundry was rolled into their dorm bill and washing machines were free to use. Vending machines now accept swipe cards, including student IDs, which can be used like a debit card. Often, the student’s required meal plan will include a certain amount of spending money pre-loaded on their student ID.

A coffee maker: Most students prefer to swing by the campus coffee shop–and most dorms prohibit any appliance with an exposed heating element.

A printer and paper: Students can save their work to an online cloud and print off assignments in university computer labs around campus. Many professors ask for course work to be turned in online anyway, making personal printers almost entirely unnecessary.

A lap desk: They look like they’d be useful, but they’ll end up shoved in a closet (or under the bed.)

Alarm clock: Every young person I know uses their phone.

First aid kit: Most campuses have a convenience store where first aid items are available as needed.

Sending a kid off into the world is one of the hardest thing we do, as parents. But take heart–even while they’re in college, they really don’t need much to be the successful, responsible, amazing people you’ve taught them how to be.

 

This post is the second in a series aimed at parents of new college students. I invite you to read the first post here.