The countdown to move-in day is on! If this is your first time experiencing how to get ready for college, or you just want a refresher, you’re in the right spot. Here is an idea of what parents of college students need to know before the big day.
First, prepare for emotions to run high. You’re all feeling the full spectrum of emotions. For parents, it can be overwhelming to think about saying goodbye to a child and leaving them as they start an exciting new chapter of life. Meanwhile, your child is balancing the excitement of new beginnings with the nerves of being independent and in a new place. It’s a rollercoaster of a day, but don’t worry—you’ll all get through it.
Follow our tips to make moving into college easier for your family:
- Get Organized: Ensure you have clear directions on when and where to arrive for move-in day. Read all the emails with move-in details beforehand. Coordinate move-in times with roommates. Wear comfortable shoes! Ask move-in volunteers for help when you arrive. Parking and unloading are usually the most stressful part, so pre-planning will help streamline the process.
- Pack Smart: Consider taking a minimalist approach to packing for college, focusing on essentials and a few must-have personal items. Refer to the basic packing list below and ask other parents of college students for their recommendations. Have your student connect with their roommate(s) to figure out who is bringing what to avoid buying and carrying multiple futons or mini-fridges.
- Know the Rules: Familiarize yourself with residence hall rules regarding permissible items. Understanding these guidelines beforehand can prevent any last-minute surprises or frustration during move-in. Here’s a list of what to bring and what not to bring to Drake residence halls.
- Stay Calm and Expect the Unexpected: There may be delays and challenges along the way. Just remember, every family is going through this and doing their best to get their child moved. Look for staff to help you out and answer questions.
- Plan for Connection: Encourage your child to plan to meet up with someone they already know or seek out planned events on campus for that first night. This is also a great time for your student and their roommate to get to know each other a little more if they are randomly assigned or only spent a little time together previously. Having a familiar face or a scheduled activity helps keep loneliness at bay. Colleges offer many activities and opportunities to meet other students!
- Add a Personal Touch: Surprise your child with a few photos, maybe of their beloved pets or some family snapshots, tucked away in their belongings. These memories can offer comfort and a sense of home. Many parents write an advice letter or notebook to share their college experiences and life tips.
- Read the Cues: You know your child best. Look for those subtle cues signaling when it’s time to say goodbye. Don’t linger; give them a final hug and let them enjoy their independence. They’ll be okay. Consider packing a box of tissues for the car ride home, just in case.
Understanding what to expect can greatly reduce your and your student’s anxiety about moving to college. We’ve created many videos to help new students prepare for life at Drake.
- See what to expect at the Drake Residence Halls. Watrch a tour of first-year housing (The Quad) and upper-class housing (Goodwin Kirk).
- Take a tour of the Drake Campus.
- Meet the greatest mascot in the world, Griff II.
A Sample Packing List for College
Bathroom
- Bath towels
- Robe and slippers or shower sandals
- Makeup and self-care products
- Shower caddy with toiletries
Bedding
- Pillows
- Comforter or quilt
- Two sets of bed sheets (twin XL recommended) and pillowcases
- Mattress cover
- Extra blankets
Clothing/Organization
- Clothing (including at least one professional outfit)
- Laundry detergent and dryer sheets
- Laundry basket or bag
- Hangers
- Seasonal items, like a winter coat, swimsuit, umbrella, etc.
- Shoes and accessories
- Suitcase or travel bag
- Cleaning supplies, including a small vacuum cleaner or broom
- Storage containers
Food
- Coffee mugs and water bottles
- Reusable dish set and silverware
- Mini-fridge, microwave, and Keurig-style coffee pot
- Food storage containers
- Non-perishable snacks
Furniture & Electronics
- Futon, small couch, or chair
- TV and speakers
- Game console and controllers
- Computer or laptop
- Lamps or extra lighting
- Device chargers
- Headphones or earbuds
- Surge protectors
Miscellaneous
- Decorations
- IDs and paperwork (including insurance cards)
- Over-the-counter medications (cold and flu meds, antacids, pain relievers, etc.)
- Prescription medications and copies of prescriptions
- First-aid kit
- Flashlight and batteries
- Basic tool kit, blue tape, removable hooks, and thumbtacks
We hope this list was helpful, regardless of what college your child is attending. If you’re coming to Drake, we look forward to seeing you. Learn more about the move-in experience at Drake here.
