Be clear about what you can contribute toward expenses in advance.
Talk to your student about what their financial responsibilities should be, whether it is working a part-time job, applying for financial aid or taking out a student loan.
Be sure to remind them that every family is different and therefore their friends may have different financial obligations and responsibilities.
Parents’ homeowner’s insurance usually covers the personal belongings of a full-time student while living in a college residence hall. Check with your insurance company for how much insurance, if any, you have.
Managing Money
Depending on your financial plan, your student may need to learn to:
Budget money
Write a check
Balance a checkbook
Use a credit card responsibly
Pay bills
Use an ATM
Knowing the Basics
Students should know how to:
Do laundry
Clean
Cook
Sharing a Room
Having a new roommate can be a big adjustment that requires new social skills. Contacting the new roommate over the summer can be a great way to ease into the transition. It also allows for them to discuss class schedules, study habits, and a great opportunity to discuss who can bring what. That way your student won’t end up with two stereos and two televisions.
Managing Time
Talking to your student about time management may help with the transition from high school to college. Scheduling time for studying, outside interests and family obligations can help reduce stress – and improve academic success. Encourage your student to use a planner. Write down any important dates your family may have such as holidays and birthdays for your student. This also helps your student stay connected to what is going on back home.
Top Ten Gifts to Give Your College Student
A family portrait for their residence hall room to remind them that you are still there and that, even when they’re busy and far away, they’re an important part of the family.
A large laundry bag (so they will have something to carry their dirty clothes in when they come home).
Care packages (cookies, school supplies, etc.).
A card once a week to let them know how things are at home.
Cleaning supplies (with a manual on how to use them).
An unlimited cell phone or calling plan so you can keep in touch.
A list of important family events and obligations already filled in, as well as a phone book with family and friends’ numbers.
