With every high school graduation ceremony that passes, there are more and more seniors moving on to the thought of life free from parental tyranny. OK, maybe it's not that bad, but either way, hear from the Unigo Expert Network on what students need to bring with them to college, or will be kicking themselves later for forgetting.
This week's question asks:
"I leave for college in a few months, but don't know what to bring. What should every college student bring with them for academics, social, and dorm life? What does every student kick themselves for forgetting?"
See answers from the VP of The College Board, Dean of Admissions at the University of Illinois, and ask your own questions at Unigo.
"College life is all about change"
There is much talk about the change being felt in 21st century learning and much to be said about impending social and academic change as students move from high school to postsecondary education away from home. But these are quite secondary in their effect on your day to day life. In reality, the single most important change you will encounter over the next few months will be the importance of the change in your pocket which will go to feed the relentless demands of laundry and vending machines. You simply can never have enough available change so start saving it now.
-- Peter Brass, Director of Student Services and University Advisor, St. John's-Ravenscourt School
"Don't forget the most commonly forgotten item..."
The most commonly forgotten item, for most every first year college student, is a first aid kit. That may sound silly, but bandages come in handy on a college campus! You simply can't go wrong with a variety of supplies, like Neosporin, bandages, Advil/Tylenol, alcohol/hydrogen peroxide, thermometer, cough drops and the type of cold medicine you like to take when you are experiencing cold symptoms. You may not be able to run out to the store and your roommate may not be available at that critical moment when you need these supplies.
-- Patty Gibbs, Dean of Students, Wesleyan College
"Letter to yourself about why a college degree is important"
One item you might not find on traditional college checklists is a letter you've written to yourself. Throughout your college experience, you may have days that frustrate you and make you wonder if you will ever get your degree. Write a letter to yourself now -- when your excitement for this new adventure is fresh and your goals are clear. Why is going to college so important to you? What are your goals upon completion? Take this out when things get rough and you will remember that all your hard work and effort is indeed worth it.
-- Jim McCorkell, CEO, Admission Possible
See all 40 expert answers to this question
What was the one thing you wish you remembered to bring to college?