At this stage, technology and education are inextricably linked, and this interconnectedness will only continue to grow as students move into college. That said, this post is intended to get students and parents thinking about the ways in which they will navigate those roads ahead. Our fundamental question is:
How will technology figure into your life in college?
Here are some additional points to consider:
Be sure you know what your school recommends, requires, and provides before purchasing anything! Admitted student websites and social media groups are great places to explore answers to these questions.
What will you bring to college for a communication device? Will you get a new cell phone or a SIM card for your current phone? Will you keep two devices?
What will you bring with you to college for a computer? Does your college recommend a certain type or brand (e.g. Mac v. PC)?
Does your college offer any discounts or deals for purchasing a new computer? Have you explored the IT department, the campus bookstore, and local shops?
Alumni Advice: Check out what the IT office recommends and get what they say. If your computer breaks and you are using what they suggest, then they can definitely help you. If you’re using another brand or model, they might not be able to help!
What software or platforms does your college recommend or require?
Will you bring iPads/tablets, iPods or other personal music players, wearable technology (e.g. smart watch), or other technology?
Will you bring a TV, gaming system, etc? Have you communicated with your roommates about this? And does the college make any recommendations on this front?
Alumni Advice: Don’t bring things that will distract you and keep you in your dorm room the whole time. Some friends of mine had TVs and gaming systems and never left their rooms, which prevented them from making friends.
Alumni Advice: Keep your stuff safe! High school is not real life. You cannot just leave your things laying around and expect them to be there when you come back.
This piece is part of a series on “transitioning to college.” We encourage graduating seniors and their parents or guardians to engage in discussion on a weekly basis about these topics. If you have feedback or additional ideas or perspectives to share, please let us know so we can incorporate your thoughts into revisions of our posts.