Essential To-Do’s the Summer Before Leaving for College

The summer before college is an exciting and busy time. It’s your chance to get organized, prepare for independence, and set yourself up for a great first year. Here’s a detailed guide to help you cover all the important bases:

1. Connect with Your Roommate

Colleges assign roommates in several different ways:

• Random Assignment: Some schools simply pair students at random. This can be a great way to meet someone with a totally different background.

• Lifestyle Questionnaires: Many colleges use a survey about habits (sleep schedule, cleanliness, study preferences, etc.) and try to match you with someone compatible.

• Roommate Finder Platforms: Some schools offer online platforms or social media groups where you can connect with other incoming students and select your own roommate.

• Requesting a Friend: If you know someone attending the same college, most schools allow you to request each other as roommates.

  
  

What to Do: Once you know your roommate, reach out via email, text, or social media. Introduce yourself and discuss things like who’s bringing what (mini fridge, microwave, etc.), and your preferences for guests, quiet hours, and cleaning. Early, open communication helps set the tone for a respectful and enjoyable living situation.

2. Attend Orientation

Orientation is your official welcome to college life and is usually mandatory. It may be in-person, virtual, or a hybrid of both. Here’s what to expect:

• Campus Tours: Get to know the layout of your new home.

• Class Registration: Meet with academic advisors and sign up for your first semester classes.

• Resource Overviews: Learn about campus resources such as counseling, tutoring, and health services.

• Social Events: Meet other new students, make friends, and start building your community.

  
  

What to Do: Register for orientation as soon as possible and make note of the schedule. Prepare questions about academics, housing, and campus life. Take full advantage of the opportunity to meet people and get comfortable on campus.

3. Organize Important Documents

You’ll need various documents for move-in and throughout your college experience:

• Identification: Driver’s license, state ID, or passport.

• Health Insurance Card: Proof of coverage is often required.

• Medical Records: Immunization history and any necessary prescriptions.

• Financial Aid Information: Award letters, loan and scholarship documents.

• College Paperwork: Acceptance letter, housing assignment, class schedule, and meal plan details.

  
  

What to Do: Make both digital and physical copies of all important documents. Store them in a secure, accessible place (such as a lockbox or a secure cloud folder).

4. Set Up and Monitor Student Portals

Your college will have several online portals for different services:

• Registration and Academics: For signing up for classes and checking grades.

• Housing and Dining: To view your room assignment and meal plan.

• Financial Aid and Billing: To accept aid, pay bills, and manage refunds.

What to Do: Set up your accounts early and check them regularly for updates, deadlines, and messages from the college. Enable notifications if possible so you don’t miss anything important.

5. Understand and Arrange Health Insurance

Most colleges require students to have health insurance, and you may have several options:

• Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP): Many colleges offer their own plans that cover on-campus and local health providers.

• Parent’s Insurance: If you’re under 26, you may be eligible to stay on your family’s plan. Make sure it covers providers near campus.

• Marketplace Plans: You can also explore options on the ACA Marketplace if needed.

  
  

What to Do:  Review your school’s requirements and deadlines for waiving or enrolling in their plan. Compare coverage, costs, and provider networks. Have your insurance card ready for move-in and know where to go for care if you get sick.

6. Manage Finances and Financial Aid

College comes with new financial responsibilities:

• Financial Aid: Accept or decline your aid package, set up direct deposit for refunds, and complete any required loan counseling.

• Budgeting: Estimate costs for tuition, books, supplies, transportation, and personal expenses.

• Paying Bills: Learn how to pay tuition and other fees online.

  
  

What to Do: Create a simple budget and track your spending. Set up alerts for payment deadlines and keep an eye on your student account for any new charges.

7. Develop Life Skills and Healthy Habits

Living on your own means handling daily tasks independently:

• Laundry: Know how to sort, wash, and dry clothes.

• Cooking: Learn to prepare a few basic meals and snacks.

• Cleaning: Understand how to keep your living space tidy.

• Time Management: Practice organizing your schedule and setting reminders.

  
  

What to Do: Start practicing these skills at home over the summer. Establish routines for exercise, sleep, and stress relief—college can be demanding, and good habits make a big difference.

8. Prepare Academically and Socially

College is about more than classes—it’s a chance to grow as a person:

• Academic Prep: Review your class schedule, buy or rent textbooks, and brush up on study skills.

• Social Prep: Research clubs, organizations, and campus events that interest you.

• Networking: Connect with classmates through group chats or social media.

  
  

What to Do: Set academic goals for your first semester. Plan to attend club fairs and try new activities. Building a support network early will help you feel at home.

Final Thoughts

The summer before college is your launchpad for success. By staying organized and proactive with these steps, you’ll arrive on campus confident, prepared, and ready to make the most of your college experience!