I am grateful that Ernest made a double batch of his brother's famous cookies.
And that I unknowingly bought his favorite type of laundry detergent.
It goes both ways, doesn't it?
I would be most grateful for tips on useful items for college-bound people. We've got the bed and bath stuff, but what else have your people found handy?
14 comments:
A Target near the dorm!
Extra hangers, a small fan, an extra set of drawers (check room first for fit, then hit Target), a desk lamp, extension cords, power strip, microfiber towel (quick dry, less odor), shower shoes, shower caddy, large drawstring laundry bag, a nice XL twin mattress pad (because the plastic mattresses are uncomfy and get hot, our babies must be comfy), a small fridge (if allowed), removeable/damage-free hooks for the closet, storage bags/boxes for under the bed), a chair pad and/or back support (check out the desk chair situation first), basic office supplies (stapler, tape, scissors, paper clips, post-its, etc.) ... I'm sure I'll think of more. WHAT?
Cheri's got this down! I'd add a few rolls of quarters. They're not sexy but you don't want to be scrounging around for change when you don't have any clean underwear. :)
Also a few kitchen items so if you're starving at midnight you don't have to run to someplace gross like McDonalds. Set of silverware, cup, bowl, stuff that can be microwaved like cup of noodles.
Oh, and if I were doing it again, I would want an iPod dock that is a clock, charger, speaker, etc.
And I want that plate of cookies NOW please!
Oh my goodness, Cheri's list has just scared the pants off of me. Maybe Emma shouldn't go to college?!
This is exciting!
Cheri's list is pretty much right on the nose. And Claudia's right, too. A basice "mess kit" can be really useful.
About laundry: Be careful about buying laundry detergent - our kids' college facilities only use HE laundry detergent. And some colleges do not require quarters for laundry - they put it on the student's tab.
Cassi, don't freak out! It's actually not really that big a list. I would say the crucial things are the shower items, and appropriate size sheets (which you do NOT have to buy through the expensive college-sponsored bedding company - cheaper at Target).
Before buying big items, always check with the roommate to see if he is planning to bring his own of said item. Find out if the roommate is willing to share refrigerator space.
Packing the winter stuff in storage boxes that can be stored in the closet/under the bed is a great way to go. They won't need that stuff right away, but if they don't/can't come home for it when it starts to get cold it's a plus to already have it there.
But dorm rooms, as you probably know, are TINY. If you have time on move-in day, it can be better to assess the space situation and THEN go to Target, as Cheri says.
I asked my son, who was a college freshman last year, what he wished he had remembered to bring. He said he wished he had bought a bathroom cup. He used a water bottle (typical Boy Scout) instead.
My daughter forgot to pack ANY hangers, and we had to stop by a dry-cleaner's and beg them for a pack of hangers (which they willingly gave us for free).
If you have time, go to the college bookstore and find out if they stock basic toiletries like toothpaste and deodorant and soup, etc. My kids claim that their bookstore does not have this stuff. They are on a city campus, but the Target-type stores are not close by. If it will not be easy for your kid to get to a store that has toiletries, or if your kid needs a special type (e.g. allergenic/ unscented) it could be good to stock up at the beginning of the year.
It seemed that for the freshmen, the first week had a huge number of free food opportunities, as all the different groups on campus try to attract new members. A few weeks after classes start, that package from home with cookies / microwave mac 'n' cheese, etc, can be really appreciated.
Who-hoo we're on the right track.
Cheri's list is great. And I want those cookies!
A college student would need cash. Lots of it ;)
Those cookies look amazing! Are they oatmeal raisin or chocolate chip?
And as for college, Cheri's got that covered. ;)
I have no tips, but man, those cookies look GOOD.
I'd say that Cheri and CHM have it pretty well covered. My latest to head off to college bought himself a nice electric pencil sharpener because he's particular about his pencils. He also purchased a small brush and dustpan for spills.
Thirty years ago, I considered an electric hot pot (water heater) a necessity but my kids think that is weird.
You are waaaaay ahead of me here. Time to find that box of hand-me-down dorm room supplies from the older, married brother!
I tossed the some driers into the box . Only reason we had them here was to dry out his bike shoes after riding in the rain. No one else here in CA is going to be doing that. I think he could dry out snow sodden shoes instead.
SHOE driers, not some driers.
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