Navigating College Move-In Day Without Losing Your Cool

Get Pregnant Fast

Successfully managing move-in day hinges on preparation and adaptability. By this point, you should have gathered all essential items (don’t forget to check out the fantastic printable shopping list from Target or the online lists tailored for various colleges by Bed Bath & Beyond) and had “The Talk” about roommates, friendships, campus safety, health, alcohol, and yes, S-E-X.

Having sent two kids off to college across 5,000 miles, I’ve learned valuable lessons about what truly works. We survived those significant days and now look back with fondness (lots of smiling photos to prove it). You’ll have similar experiences.

Do’s:

1. Encourage your child to reach out to their roommate through email or social media. This is often when decisions about who brings items like a fridge or TV are made. As a parent, you might be tempted to scrutinize their roommate’s online presence—resist the urge to comment negatively, such as “Wow, he seems like a handful” or “Looks like she enjoys a good party.”
2. If possible, aim to arrive at least a day before move-in day. This allows time for last-minute shopping and familiarizing yourself with the campus (if your child will allow you to tag along).
3. Prioritize a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast before the big day. Arriving tired and cranky can quickly sour the atmosphere, not to mention the first impression on your child’s roommate.
4. Print out your move-in directions, schedule, and maps, and familiarize yourself with them ahead of time. Approach this day like a Navy Seal on a mission.
5. Pack healthy snacks and plenty of water—save the wine for later! (We opted for a water case instead.)
6. Don’t forget a small toolset, duct tape, and adhesive hooks. It’s also wise to bring paper towels and cleaning wipes to give the room a once-over before unpacking. This may be the only time the room gets cleaned all year.
7. Exchange contact information with the roommate and their parents for emergency purposes only—not for monitoring your child’s homework or social activities.
8. Pack a few small framed family photos for their space, even if they protest. Once they see their roommate’s pictures, they’ll likely wish they had their own.
9. Include a First Aid Kit with essentials like Advil, Tylenol, and a thermometer—because inevitably, they’ll get sick, and you’ll want to know how they’re doing from afar.
10. Bring earplugs, headphones, and a sleep mask to help them enjoy some quiet time without bothering each other. This can extend the honeymoon phase a bit longer.

Don’ts:

1. Avoid packing for your child. Involve them in the process so they know what they have and where it is. They may still call you looking for something, but cherish those calls—they’ll grow fewer as time goes on.
2. Don’t attempt to bring their entire wardrobe. Closet space is limited, and shipping items can lead to long waits at the school post office. Plan accordingly.
3. Don’t take over the organization or decoration of your child’s room. This is their space to make their own, and they’ll likely rearrange things as soon as you leave.
4. Keep the door open while unpacking to invite neighbors in for a chat. You’ll be surprised at how this can break the ice and lead to new friendships.
5. If conflicts come up during the move-in process, let your child handle it. They’ll be the one living with their roommate, after all.
6. Bring tissues, but try to maintain your composure. Yes, this is a significant milestone in their life—and yours—but it’s also a thrilling time that deserves celebration.
7. Don’t miss capturing the moment with photos and squeezing in as many hugs as your child will allow (preferably not in front of their new roommate).
8. Be sure to attend orientation programs. They might seem dull, but they provide valuable information about the school and opportunities for your child to connect with peers.
9. Don’t forget to include a little surprise in their suitcase, like a note or small care package with their favorite snacks a few weeks after move-in. Something fun, like poker chips or beauty items, is always appreciated.
10. Resist the urge to hover. Checking in with a text or call is great, but avoid becoming a helicopter parent. They will manage their own lives—eventually!

For more insights on this transitional phase, check out our other blog post here. And if you’re considering at-home insemination options, Make A Mom offers great syringe kits to help you along your journey. Additionally, CCRM IVF provides a wealth of resources for pregnancy and home insemination.

In summary, dropping your child off at college is a significant milestone filled with mixed emotions. By planning ahead, staying organized, and allowing your child the independence they crave, you can make the experience memorable for both of you.