Once your student has been accepted to college, both you and she breathe a sigh of relief. The admissions ordeal is over. It’s time to relax a bit and enjoy the final part of senior year with all of the high school festivities taking place.
But once your student has walked across that high school graduation stage, the work of preparing for college begins. Although your student may very happily wait until the last minute to begin packing those boxes for the move to college, there are tasks that you and he should be undertaking now to be sure to be ready. These tasks may differ somewhat depending on your student and his school, but be sure to help him begin to focus on getting ready for the big move.
Take a look at some of our suggestions for getting started now – for college success in the fall.
Preparing for College Academics
Your student can off on the right foot academically by making sure to complete any placement exams or assigned summer reading. Some colleges wait to have students create their schedule when they arrive in the fall, but if your student has to opportunity to do it now, take advantage of the time to think carefully about it — and to consult with a faculty advisor. Once your student knows her schedule, she may be able to get a head start on purchasing her textbooks.
Why Has My First Year College Student Been Assigned Summer Reading?
The Problem with College Placement Exams
What is a College Summer Bridge Program?
What Should My College Student Consider When Choosing a Schedule of Classes?
Where and How to Buy College Textbooks
Preparing for the Transition
If your student’s school offers a summer orientation experience, don’t miss it. It is a wonderful way to ease anxiety and get started on the right foot.
Why Summer Orientation is Important for Your College Freshman
Living on Campus
Moving to campus is a big transition. There is work to do over the summer — beyond just outfitting the perfect dorm room.
Preparing for Your College Freshman’s Move to College
How to Help Your College Student Prepare for Living with a Roommate
Helping Your College Student Select a Meal Plan
Living on Campus? Why Your Student Needs the Meningitis Vaccine
Deciding What to Bring
Make careful decisions about what to bring to college. And remember, things can always be purchased or brought from home later. Less is often more in a small dorm room.
Helping Your New College Student Consider Computer Needs
Four Essentials Your Student MUST Take to College
Save Money on Outfitting Your Student’s Dorm Room
Special Considerations and Preparations
If your student is going to require any special arrangements, try to make them now. College staff has more time in the summer than in the first few weeks of the new school year.
If Your College Student Has Food Allergies: What to Do, Who to Know
How the Americans with Disabilities Act Might Affect Your College Student
