Beyond the books: Smart essentials for a successful college year

College means a new experience, new friends, and new challenges, but in addition to all the textbooks, laptops, and decor for the dorm, there are those must-haves with precautions, which get overlooked pretty easily but are by no means less important. In fact, there's much more to getting ready for college life than putting whatever in that suitcase; plan smart to ensure a smooth, successful year ahead.

1. A good morning routine

Help them get into a routine to start the morning off right, so they can stay organized and on top of things. College students usually go to class, study sessions, extracurricular activities, and maintain a social life; therefore, having a routine to start off the day is huge. Encourage them to figure out what works best for them; it could be exercise, breakfast, meditation, or whatever else that might help in getting things done.

2. Personal safety items

Well, most campuses are very safe, but one can never really be too careful. If they worry about safety for themselves, it could be a whistle, pepper spray, or even something as basic as a door stop alarm. These would be some of those things that could grant comfort to a student living off-campus, maybe in a part of town they are not familiar with. Knowing your phone is fully charged and the campus safety procedures are in place, just in case something unfortunate were to happen.

3. Health essentials

It is normal for a college student to feel a rush of excitement combined with tension. If you are at home, the surge of excitement could furrow your face. That wrinkle could balloon into a dent in your health if you're not careful. Have general health supplies on hand, including over-the-counter medications, a first-aid kit, and wellness supplies such as hand sanitizer and vitamins. Getting the right amount of sleep will help your student eat well and exercise to keep her well and in top condition for the year ahead.

4. Financial preparedness

Other things needed to get to financial independence are good financial management. At the minimum, students need education regarding budgeting, saving management for groceries, transportation, and entertainment costs. It may also be a good time to initiate online banking and have an emergency fund in place.

5. Renter insurance

Another often overlooked, highly important kind of insurance is renter insurance. If your student will live either on or off campus, renter insurance covers personal property against loss in cases where theft, fire, or natural disaster damages it. Students own a lot of things-laptops and textbooks, but also favorite T-shirts and sweatshirts. Renter insurance will replace them or get them repaired, along with restoring peace of mind for parents and students alike.

College is the time to grow up, explore, and make choices wisely that provide a base for the future. It's about focusing not just on what may be needed for the next semester but on the essentials that will support students in and out of the classroom, helping them feel confident as they take these important steps forward.

Want to make sure your student is prepared and protected? Visit afi.org/afimsoy to learn more about how renter insurance can offer peace of mind for both students and parents alike.