It's College Move-In Day! Are You Ready?
College move-in day is an exciting event for students and parents. Nerves and emotions are running high and the day will be hectic. Here are a few tips that can help make the process a little smoother:
- Get there the day before
This will give you a chance to scope out the drop-off area and plan your execution. You won’t have to worry about driving around to find the building and loading zone because you’ll already know where to go.
- Choose the earliest time you can
Many people choose to wait – don’t do it. The earlier you can get in there and get things settled, the more time you’ll have to look around, visit the stores and have those precious moments with your family.
- Dress appropriately
This isn’t the time to have on something you don’t want to get dirty. You may be walking, climbing stairs, lifting and sweating. Make sure you have on comfortable shoes and clothing.
- Bring a dolly
We can’t say it enough – BRING A DOLLY (or two). You will thank yourself later. Colleges and universities are notorious for those long walks from the car, or even when getting things up to the room. Save yourself some time and strength.
- Eat before you go
Don’t tackle move-in day without having something to eat. You may have a long day ahead, especially if things aren’t well organized. While most school’s operate like a well-oiled machine, anything could happen that will cause delays.
- Have personal information handy
Your student will have to provide information to get their room key. Make sure they have all the personal information they need ready and available. It’s important to let them take the lead on this – it’s their first “official” task as a college student. One of the most important things – check the paperwork.
- Have an idea of where you want things to go
If you’ve seen the room, you should have a general idea of where you want things to go. This will make unpacking easier.
- Inspect the room before unpacking
Inspect the room to make sure everything is as it should be. The last thing you want is to be charged for something your student wasn’t responsible for. If you find anything wrong, notify the housing person immediately.
- Use storage bins
Packing with storage bins and large bags will help get everything where it needs to be very quickly. They hold a lot and your parents can take them home if you don’t need them.
- Bring tools and trash bags
You’ll be cleaning – more than you probably realize. Having trash bags handy so you can get rid of any trash is a lifesaver. You’ll also need tools for a number of reasons. Be prepared.
- Bring an electric fan
In most dorms, move-in day is very hot. Doors are open, the hallways are filled with people and the air will seem as if it’s disappeared. Having a fan to circulate the air will help get through the day.
- Bring a snack and water
It's easy to forget to bring water, but make it a priority. It's also good to bring a snack or two to keep your energy high.
- Plan for a run to the store (or two)
Even the best-laid plans have setbacks. You may have forgotten something and need to run to the store. You may also have opted to go grocery shopping once everything was unpacked. Plan for it – it’s probably going to happen.
These are just the basics to help you get through move-in day without a hitch. Of course, you’ll want to have the tissues handy – just in case.
