A new college student must learn to live on his own in many ways, most likely for the first time in his life. As such, he will need to be prepared to do things like his own laundry and cleaning, and sometimes even his own food shopping and budgeting. You can help your new college student by putting together a special package for him to take with him that is filled with essentials and "survival" items he will need, such as cleaning supplies, bedding, school essentials and bathroom necessities. To make it extra special, throw in a few surprises he can find once you are gone and he is unpacking.
Backpacks, notebooks and binders, pens, calculators and other education essentials are a must-have for new college students. If you want to make these everyday items more special, purchase a high-quality version of any of these items and have her name or initials monogrammed or engraved on that item. Backpacks can be easily monogrammed, and many companies will do it for free if you purchase with them. Binders can be leather-bound with names engraved. Personalizing an everyday will make it a treasured item as well as a useful one.
College students are known for being "poor." Many of them aren't able to work because of a full course load, and it can be overwhelming to juggle a job and a full academic career. If you want to provide support for a student leaving for college, consider helping him out financially. When children are younger, they do not always appreciate a financial gift, however, living the college life with give them an appreciation for a full gas card, a gift card to a favorite restaurant or even some cash as needed.
Most colleges differ in what they do and do not allow colleges students to bring with them when they move in. What your new student will need will depend largely on what kind of dorm he lives in. In most colleges, beds, a chair and desk, a dresser and a closet are provided for, however, your student may need or want something additional for his room. Picking up furniture, artwork or appliances, such as a small refrigerator, will give your child some of the conveniences of home that he would not be able to purchase himself. Be sure to check the college's guidelines for what is permissible and what items are not.