Youth are moving on up: make an easy transition to college

At this time of year, many parents are helping their collegebound children pack up and head off to university. Steve Yapp, owner/operator of PODS of Ventura County and Santa Maria, offers some tips to make the move easier.

•Read all admissions materials carefully and be familiar with campus rules and regulations. Keeping informed will help in the transition process.

•Check out the college website for dorm information and resources ahead of time. Use a checklist of suggested items to bring to keep the packing process focused and streamlined.

•Pack belongings ahead of time to keep last-minute stress to a minimum.

•Most colleges have student websites with the ability to open a campus e-mail account. Take the time to set this up prior to leaving for college, working out any technical issues ahead of time to receive important school notices.

•Contact any creditors, financial institutions or insurance companies and provide updated contact information.

•Make duplicate copies of personal and business records and leave it with a parent or trusted guardian in the event of misplacing the originals.

•If sharing a dorm room with one or more students, contact them ahead of time and establish a connection. Discuss personal styles and work together on making the dorm room a "home away from home." Discuss larger items such as microwaves and avoid bringing duplicates to maximize space.

•Some colleges require immunizations as a prerequisite of dorm living. Read over admission policies well ahead of time and visit a personal physician ahead of time for health screenings.