Things to Do Before Moving to College

Moving away from home to go to college is daunting. The best way to deal with it is to be prepared so that you have less to stress about once you get there. Here is a list of things you should have done before you leave.

Have copies of vital records - This is the time for your parents to give you your social security card, a certified copy of your birth certificate, and your medical records. Most schools require the medical records anyhow, but the social security card and birth certificate are very important to have, also. You'll need them for jobs, for school registration, and to replace Ids if you lose them. If you don't already have a driver's license, then you need to get a state ID. Keep them all in a safe place; it's generally advised to not keep your SS card in your wallet.

Vehicle information - If you're moving with a car, make sure you have the title in a safe place. Have the registration and insurance information in your glove compartment, and keep them there. It's bad news to be pulled over and not have proof of insurance in most states.

List of addresses and phone numbers - yes, really, a physical list. If you lose your cell phone, then how will you call anyone? Get numbers for your doctor, your family, and your high school. Get addresses and numbers for past jobs so that you can build a resume. It is also not a bad idea to have a list of the payment information for your bills, just in case. Don't forget to change your address with the USPS, too! Unless your parents will send you your mail promptly, that will eliminate confusion and possible late fees.

School supplies - Don't be stuck without supplies once you get to school. Notebooks (one for each class), printer paper, pens, and a couple pencils, they're all things you'll use.

Vitamins - Sounds silly, but most people get sick their first few weeks of living on campus. You're surrounded by a lot of people and not getting enough sleep; try to help your body make up for it. A once-a-day multivitamin is best.

Stamps and envelopes - You may want to write home; even if you don't, the stamps will come in handy at off times. Get forever stamps (they have the liberty bell on them), and they'll never be outdated.

Door decorations - Have a favorite comic strip? How about some wrapping paper you really like, or some cool old calendar pictures? Everyone decorates their door for the first year. Bring something that means something to you, and don't forget some scotch tape!

Visit everyone and go to all your favorite places - Once you've lived away form home, when you go back it'll never be the same. Go visit everyone you might not see for a while, especially your family. Go to all the places you love, because once you've been gone, everything is changed and won't give you the same feelings. Hold on to it while you can, and then move on and keep the memories.

Good luck!