by William Riker

Created on: August 01, 2007   Last Updated: September 10, 2009

Whether you are going to college or making a move anywhere, there are two things which can help tremendously. First, make lists. Have different lists for different things such as clothes. Put outfits and shoes and belts together that go together so you do not get where you are going and nothing matches. And leave at least one set of clothes at home for a quick change in case you bring home a load of dirty clothes. You will need a list for computer and telephone and electronics related items including cords, money and banking and ID stuff, reference books like dictionaries, etc., and personal body care items. Include a roll or partial roll of toilet paper just in case there is none where you are going and you have to go. Same for a couple of sets of towels and wash cloths and soaps. Second, start a staging area. As clothes, outfits, toiletries, and other things come together that are not used all the time like your phone, go ahead and stage them into boxes and mark the boxes even if it with just a code that you have on your lists. Also, with stuff in boxes, it is easy to move them with a hand truck rather than carry tons of stuff in your hands. Finally, enjoy the move. Enjoy the excitement of starting your life. And thank your parents, teachers, and other people who have influenced you for getting you as far as they have. And write often even if it is just a short, but regularly sent email to your mother. She is there at home worrying every minute about you. Get a mind set that you will study hard. Most college students drop a grade from high school grades because college is really, really tough. Work hard but also go to the football games to ease off tension. Double and triple date until you get to know the character of those new "friends" so dates are not wrestling matches. Or learn karate and judo and psychology to give you confidence. Good luck. I am praying for your success every time a camera pans a crowd at a college football game. You are the next leaders of this country. Learn some ethics courses since those were left out of the education of those running this country and businesses.

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