Penn State Parents

Tips for Parents

• A Meningococcal Vaccination is required of all students living on campus.
• Commencement Ceremonies—Book your lodging early! Don't wait to the last minute. Check here for commencement dates, speakers, and lodging information.

Tips for Parents of First-year Students

We can imagine your pride and anticipation to see your student become a part of the Penn State family. We have compiled a list of items to pack and other tips to help you during this new phase of your student's life.

• Make hotel arrangements as soon as possible, especially during home football games, Parent & Family Weekend, and Move-In Days.
• Install anti-virus software on computers.
• To avoid lines, try to open an account at a local bank prior to arrival.
• Ask what roommates will bring, to avoid duplication.
• Bring flip-flops for the communal bathrooms and a shower caddy for the storage of shampoo, soap, etc.
• Pack items in plastic trash bags. They're lighter to carry and disposable.
• To save space, ship warmer clothes later in the fall.
• Pack a First Aid Kit, a fan, extension cords, a power/surge protector strip, a few tools to assemble new equipment, and plenty of stamps to use when writing home to friends and family.