Ready for College? 5 Tips For Every Parent

The day you’ve dreaded is here. Your child is going off to college, leaving you hoping you’ve done everything you can for him or her. If not, don’t worry. You still have time to develop a financial plan, purchase hardware, buy textbooks, determine a degree, setup a cell phone plan and get your student organized.

Financial Planning
College is an important step in your child’s life, but an expensive one. Thus, if you don’t already have a financial plan, now is the time. After all, who’s going to pay for tuition, books and room and board? Sit down and speak with your child about the expenses, the extras and his or her options.

Hardware Necessity
Throughout your child’s educational career, a computer was a convenient luxury. That’s no longer the case. A portable computer is vital to your child’s college education for such things as online research, writing papers and taking notes. Choose something that weighs less than four pounds, has wireless capabilities, a long battery life and a webcam.

The Degree Factor
Your child was looking forward to college – until he or she realized his or her chosen degree would affect the rest of his or her life. You can ease that stress by asking the right questions and going from there. For example, a child interested in global politics, cultural relations and global economy, he or she might consider earning an online master’s in international relations or other related degree. It’s important to learn more about the degree your child is interested in earning.

Comparative Savings
Textbooks are a reality in college, but the price associated with them doesn’t have to be. You and your child can save a lot of money by purchasing the textbooks before the semester starts. Online retailers and brick-and-mortar campus bookstores also offer an option for saving a few pennies. You may even consider renting books rather than buying them.

Calling Home
As exciting as gaining their independence is for most children, they still need you. In some cases, they may need you five or six times a day. To ensure they can always reach you, make sure your wireless company coverage includes their campus. If not, look into local or school companies that may provide student discounts and excellent service.

With these five tips, you’ve done everything you can. You’ve ensured your child has a financial plan, a computer, a phone and textbooks. You even helped him or her decide on a degree. Now, step back and watch your little bird fly.

By Rachelle Wilber
Bio: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @RachelleWilber; https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009221637700