Your Checklist for College

Starting college can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time, whether you are going to community college, a private school, or a state university. There may appear to be many hurdles standing between you and your first day of class, but taking the process one step at a time can help make it less intimidating.

No matter where you are in the process of preparing for college, keeping a checklist can give you a clear idea of the work you still have to do. My College Companion is here to support you and make sure you are as prepared as possible for your first day of college.

Checklist to Prepare for College

Committing to a college is an exciting time, and you certainly have a lot to celebrate. With that being said, there are several vital items that we encourage you to take care of ahead of time. Before your first day, make sure you have done all of the following:

Register for classes and confirm your schedule
Make sure your FAFSA is filled out, if applicable
Meet with your advisor
Organize a budget that includes groceries, clothes, and social outings
Once your housing arrangements are confirmed, reach out to your roommate
Buy course materials online or stop at your university's bookstore
Explore the available transit and parking options if needed
Get acquainted with your student email and/or online dashboard ahead of time
Sign up for campus orientation and welcome events
Set up a checking account with a bank such as Chase, which offers perks for students
Create a LinkedIn profile or make sure your current one is up to date

Checklist to Pack for College

If you are planning to leave home for college, you likely have a good amount of packing ahead of you. Whether you are attending college in a different city or state, a comprehensive packing list can make move-in day much smoother and start your first year of college on the right foot. While there are the obvious items such as clothes and toiletries, double-check your suitcase for the following items:

Supplies specifically for school, including notebooks, pens, a daily planner, and a backpack
Any appliances you'd like to have in your dorm, keeping in mind that most dorms won't come with a microwave or similar gadgets
Identification documents such as your driver's license, passport, and student ID card
Keys for your dorm and bike lock
Reusable water bottle
Bedding, including sheets, a comforter, and pillows
Organizational items for your dorm, such as a laundry basket, hangers, storage bins, a shower caddy, and surge protectors
Other items that will make dorm life easier, including a desk lamp, toolkit, first aid kit, and fan

Other Resources for College Students

If you are looking for more helpful information about applying for scholarships, finding internships, or other common questions, we are here to assist. You can reach out to our team through our online contact form, and we will get back to you during regular business hours.

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