University of Minnesota | Rochester

Sending your Student off to College

Packing - Where do you start?

  • Plan early- work with your son or daughter to make lists on what the necessities are to bring to college.
  • Start shopping! Shop for the items that are necessities.
  • Extension cords, power strips, duct tape and batteries….you can never have too many!
  • Be selective! Packing two vehicles full and leaving your room empty may not be a good idea! Remember, your whole room cannot fit in the move!
  • Let your student be in charge of what they pack. Some things are more important then you may know or understand
  • Pack up the car the night before. The less stress the better!
  • Pack a couple of surprises! Cookies, cake, pictures etc.
  • Make sure your student talks to their roommate on who should bring what.

Send Care packages!

Students love to see mail from home in their mailbox!

A few ideas for mail:

  • News articles, pictures, cards and an extra 20 dollar bill is always nice
  • Food, cookies, clothes
  • Microwave meals such as Macaroni and Cheese, popcorn, hot chocolate
  • Finals treats for your student and friends
  • Gift Certificates to local restaurants