The Summer of Freedom (and Preparation)

Congratulations! Your high school senior has finally graduated. You’ve survived the relentless PTA meetings, the nail-biting SAT prep, and the countless late-night study sessions. Now, you’re staring down the barrel of summer before college. You might be thinking, “What now?” Well, fear not! Let’s dive into the ultimate guide to spending the summer, preparing for college, and shopping for those dorm essentials that will transform your kid’s new living space from drab to fab.

1. Relax and Celebrate

First things first, it’s time to relax and celebrate! Graduating high school is a huge milestone. Throw a graduation party, go on a family vacation, or just binge-watch that show you’ve been putting off. The key is to let your graduate unwind after a grueling senior year.

2. Travel and Explore

Summer is the perfect time for travel. Whether it’s a road trip with friends or a family vacation, encourage your graduate to explore new places. Travel broadens the mind and provides a much-needed break before the college hustle begins.

3. Summer Job or Internship

A summer job or internship can be a great way to gain experience and save up some cash for college. Look for opportunities in fields related to their future major. Not only does this beef up the resume, but it also helps them develop professional skills.

4. Life Skills Crash Course

Before they head off to college, ensure they have some basic life skills. This includes cooking simple meals, doing laundry, managing a budget, and basic car maintenance. These skills will be invaluable once they’re on their own.

Preparing for College

1. Orientation and Registration

Most colleges offer orientation programs during the summer. These are crucial for getting acquainted with the campus, meeting new friends, and registering for classes. Make sure your grad attends!

2. Schedule a Doctor’s Appointment

Ensure all vaccinations are up to date and get a general health check-up. Many colleges require proof of immunizations, so it’s best to get this sorted early.

3. Review Financial Aid and Scholarships

Double-check all financial aid documents, loans, and scholarships. Make sure everything is in order and deadlines are met. This will save a lot of stress once the semester starts.

4. Connect with Roommates

If your grad is going to have a roommate, encourage them to reach out before move-in day. It’s helpful to coordinate who’s bringing what to avoid duplicates and ensure a smooth transition.

College and Dorm Essentials

Time to shop! Here’s a list of must-have items that will make dorm life a breeze. We’ve included some Amazon links with ratings and reviews to make your shopping easier. Also ,And don’t forget to check out our list of Dorm Room Essentials! but here are some additional highly-rated essentials to aid with your lists!

1. Bedding and Comfort

a. Twin XL Bedding Set

• Product: Bedsure Twin XL Bedding Set
• Features: Includes a comforter, pillow sham, and pillowcases. Soft and cozy microfiber.
• Rating: 4.7 stars
• Review: “Super soft and fits the dorm bed perfectly. Love the color options!”

b. Mattress Topper

• Product: Linenspa Gel Infused Memory Foam Mattress Topper
• Features: 2 inches of plush gel-infused memory foam.
• Rating: 4.5 stars
• Review: “Transformed my rock-hard dorm mattress into a cloud. Best purchase ever!”

2. Organization and Storage

a. Under-Bed Storage Containers

• Product: AmazonBasics Under Bed Storage Containers
• Features: Set of 2 fabric storage containers with handles.
• Rating: 4.6 stars
• Review: “Perfect for storing extra clothes and shoes. Keeps everything neat and accessible.”

b. Hanging Closet Organizer

• Product: Simple Houseware Hanging Closet Organizer
• Features: 6 shelves and 2 collapsible drawers.
• Rating: 4.7 stars
• Review: “Maximizes closet space and keeps everything organized. A dorm room essential!”

3. Study and Desk Supplies

a. Desk Lamp with USB Charging Port

• Product: TaoTronics LED Desk Lamp
• Features: Adjustable brightness, touch control, and USB charging port.
• Rating: 4.8 stars
• Review: “Bright and versatile. The USB port is super handy for charging my phone while studying.”

b. Noise-Cancelling Headphones

• Product: Sony WH-1000XM4 Wireless Noise-Canceling Headphones
• Features: Industry-leading noise cancellation, 30 hours battery life.
• Rating: 4.7 stars
• Review: “Blocks out all the noise from my noisy dorm floor. Perfect for studying and relaxing.”

4. Kitchen and Food Prep

a. Mini Fridge

• Product: Midea WHS-65LB1 Compact Single Reversible Door Refrigerator
• Features: 1.6 cubic feet, adjustable thermostat, energy-efficient.
• Rating: 4.5 stars
• Review: “Fits perfectly under my desk. Keeps my drinks cold and my snacks fresh.”

b. Microwave

• Product: AmazonBasics Microwave
• Features: Compact size, Alexa-enabled.
• Rating: 4.3 stars
• Review: “Ideal for quick meals and snacks. The Alexa feature is a cool bonus.”

5. Comfort and Entertainment

a. Cozy Throw Blanket

• Product: Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Blanket
• Features: Reversible, super soft, and warm.
• Rating: 4.8 stars
• Review: “Perfect for chilly nights in the dorm. So soft and cozy!”

b. Smart TV

• Product: TCL 32-inch 1080p Roku Smart LED TV
• Features: 1080p Full HD resolution, Roku TV.
• Rating: 4.6 stars
• Review: “Great picture quality and easy to use. Perfect size for a dorm room.”

Final Thoughts

Summer after high school graduation should be a mix of relaxation, preparation, and fun. It’s a time for your graduate to recharge, gain some life skills, and get ready for the next exciting chapter of their life. Shopping for college and dorm essentials can be a fun bonding experience, and it’s a great way to make sure your graduate feels comfortable and at home in their new environment.

So go ahead, celebrate this huge milestone, get ready for college, and shop for those dorm essentials. Your grad is about to embark on an incredible journey, and with the right preparation, they’ll be set for success. Happy shopping, and happy summer!

And don’t forget to check out our list of Dorm Room Essentials!