For example, a toothbrush is a very practical item to pack, but don’t forget why you’re going. A toothbrush can be bought practically anywhere, while an 18th Edition Accounting textbook probably can’t. An alarm clock would also be a wise choice to accompany you where you’re staying, because whether you’re partying or studying incessantly, you will encounter days in which you need a wakeup call, literally. Sometimes metaphorically as well, and even though parents might not be allowed on your trip (They might not even want to go, you can still take their words with you. Transitioning from High School to College could be extremely stressful, and end disastrously if not done right. There won’t be a mother or father figure to pester you on what needs to be done. Everything will be your choice, and while that sounds excitingly liberating, the giant surge of sudden power and control can overwhelm even the most responsible student. If you know this will be an inevitable problem, ask your parent or guardian, siblings, and even
friends to write you a message in a book for you to read when you’re feeling lost, stressed, or just need a refresher.
“Always do your best. What you plant now, you will harvest later.”
-Og Mandino
Mental Preparation
Although not all packing and preparation is physical, it does require a great deal of thought and consideration. Life is full of positive and negative events that can change the outcome of certain events in the future. These obstacles can be difficult to overcome, and will affect your life, so it’s good to find some ways on how to cope with or manage the stress that intrudes on your plans. This can be as simple as putting some headphones on and going for a run, or just taking a walk through park. The point of doing so is just to enjoy some quiet time for yourself to relax, recollect, and reinvigorate your body. This helps us to start working again with the same drive as, say, the beginning of senior year, or even the beginning of high school! While taking that second to call or text a friend to hang out, remember your aspirations, weigh your outcomes and stay on track. Your friends can wait five minutes, your phone isn’t running away, and Facebook isn’t shutting down.
“Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time”
-Thomas A. Edison