Wrapping Things Up
Information courtesy of AES (www.AESmentor.org)

It seems like you’ve been preparing for college forever, and in a way you have. All of your life experiences have in one way or another been setting the stage for your entrance into the college spotlight. With decisions made, applications completed and deadlines met, it’s easy to be lulled into a false sense of completion. Spring of your senior year means finalizing your decisions and tying up the loose ends of your education package. 

If you have taken Advanced Placement (AP) courses in high school, schedule and take the AP exam(s) to qualify for exemption from required courses at college. Make sure your final high school transcripts are forwarded to your chosen college. Your school counselor is usually the person who takes care of forwarding this information on your behalf.

Finalize your living arrangements whether on campus or off campus. If you’re planning on an off-campus apartment, you will need to locate a place that you, your roommate(s), and your parents are all comfortable with. You will also want to consider whether a furnished or unfurnished apartment is best for you. Review your lease thoroughly to make sure you understand any stipulations that may be attached.

Make a list of things you will want to take with you to college. Your list should include personal hygiene items, bedding, medications, your computer and all related equipment, a supply of school tools (notebooks, pens, pencils, calendar), entertainment items (television, VCR, CD player, DVD) and an appropriate supply of clothes. Be sure to communicate with your roommate(s) to coordinate who is bringing what, especially regarding large pieces of furniture.

You should also discuss your personal finances with your parents before leaving for college. It’s a good idea to develop a monthly budget for the school year so you don’t find yourself in constant financial crisis. You may want to consider long-distance calling cards as a convenient tool to keep in touch with your parents from school. 

Finalize your transportation to school. If you have your own car, make sure you have basic maintenance performed on your vehicle before heading off to school.

As you head down the home stretch toward graduation, there are still plenty of things to discuss and decisions to make. The best advice is to try to get as much accomplished before summer starts so you can enjoy a carefree summer before college.