When your student turns 18, they become legal adults in the eyes of the law, regardless of their financial dependence or living situation. This significant legal transition comes with important implications that many families don't consider until they encounter unexpected barriers to helping their adult children. This guide explains the essential legal documents to consider before your student leaves for college, why they matter, and how to obtain them. The Legal Reality of Turning 18 At 18, your child becomes a legal adult with all the privacy protections and decision-making rights that entails: Parents no longer have automatic legal authority to make decisions for their child Parents cannot access medical information without permission Parents cannot conduct financial or legal business on their child's behalf These restrictions apply even if parents are paying tuition, providing insurance, or claiming the student as a dependent on taxes While these protections are appropriate for young adults developing independence, they can create significant barriers during emergencies or when parental assistance would be beneficial. Essential Legal Documents to Consider 1. Healthcare Power of Attorney (Medical POA) What it does: Authorizes a designated person (typically a parent) to make healthcare decisions if the student is incapacitated and unable to make or communicate decisions themselves. Why it matters: Without this document, parents may face obstacles getting information or making critical healthcare decisions in emergency situations, even if they're paying for health insurance. Real-life scenario: Maya collapsed during track practice and was unconscious when admitted to the hospital. Because she had completed a Healthcare POA naming her parents, doctors could discuss her condition freely with them and her parents could consent to necessary treatment while she was unconscious. 2. HIPAA Authorization What it does: Allows healthcare providers to share medical information with designated individuals (separate from decision-making authority). Why it matters: This allows routine discussion of health matters when the student is healthy and able to make their own decisions but wants parents to remain informed. Real-life scenario: Jason's parents couldn't get information about his mono diagnosis or treatment plan because he hadn't completed a HIPAA authorization. This created unnecessary stress during his illness until he was well enough to complete the paperwork. 3. Durable Power of Attorney (Financial POA) What it does: Authorizes a designated person to handle financial and legal matters on the student's behalf. Why it matters: Allows parents to help with banking, taxes, car registration, insurance claims, or other administrative matters that might arise while the student is away at college. Real-life scenario: When Emma's car was damaged in a campus parking lot, her parents couldn't file the insurance claim or get the car repaired locally because she hadn't authorized them to act on her behalf. The situation required extensive back-and-forth document signing during her finals week. 4. Advance Healthcare Directive (Living Will) What it does: Specifies a person's wishes regarding medical treatments if they become unable to communicate their decisions. Why it matters: Provides guidance to healthcare providers and the medical power of attorney about the student's preferences for medical care in serious situations. Real-life scenario: Following a serious car accident, doctors wanted to know Carlos's wishes about certain treatments. His advance directive provided critical guidance during a time when his family was already under immense stress. How to Obtain These Documents 1. Family Attorney Most comprehensive and personalized option Can address state-specific requirements (you must consider your home state and the state of the college) Typically costs $200-500 for a basic package 2. Online Legal Services Budget-friendly alternatives like LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, or FreeWill Basic forms range from $20-150 Ensure documents comply with your state's laws 3. College Resources Many university health centers offer free HIPAA forms Student legal services offices on campus may provide document preparation at reduced costs Financial aid offices typically have FERPA release forms 4. Local Legal Aid Services Community legal clinics often provide document preparation services May offer sliding scale fees based on income While no one likes to think about emergencies, having these documents in place before your student leaves for college provides peace of mind for both parents and students. Remember, these documents can be modified or revoked at any time as your student gains independence. Moving Forward Together The transition to college represents a significant legal and developmental milestone. The best approach combines practical preparations with respect for the evolving relationship between parents and their adult children. Rather than viewing these decisions as simply administrative tasks, consider them opportunities for important conversations about trust, independence, and mutual expectations.

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This final paperwork step is the official handoff between your high school and college educational records. Pro Tip : Save all confirmation emails, submission receipts, and tracking numbers until you've successfully enrolled in classes. High School Transcript Submission How to Request Your Final High School Transcript Contact your school counseling office in May to learn the specific process Complete any required forms (paper or electronic) Provide your college's specific submission information Pay any transcript fees if applicable Verify receipt by logging into your college portal or calling the college admissions office Common Mistakes to Avoid Assuming transcripts are sent automatically Requesting too late (counseling offices close for summer) Not following up to confirm receipt Not providing the correct college information Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment Transcripts If you've taken college courses during high school through a dual credit/dual enrollment program, you must request separate transcripts from the college that awarded the credit. Important Considerations These are completely separate from your high school transcript Even if the class was taught at your high school, the transcript comes from the college If you do not send this transcript, your credits will NOT transfer How to Request Dual Credit Transcripts Search on line to find a form to request (example: “ ACC Transcript Order Form ” will take you to the Austin Community College Transcript Order Form website.) Submit the form. Make sure to Include your student ID number from that institution Provide your destination college's information exactly as requested Pay any required fees If you cannot find the information on how to order a transcript from your dual credit institution, contact the registrar's office at that college AP and IB Score Reports Your AP and IB scores must be officially sent to your college to receive credit or placement. Advanced Placement (AP) Scores As soon as your final scores are released in July, send your official scores to your college! (even if you listed a college when registering for the exam) Process : Log into your College Board account and follow the "Send Scores" process International Baccalaureate (IB) Scores Request through IB : Log into your IB candidate portal Submit by July 5 : For the six free university/college requests Process : Select "Request for Results Service" in your IB portal Common Questions and Issues "I already sent my transcript during the application process. Do I need to send it again?" Yes. Colleges require a final official transcript showing graduation and final grades, regardless of what was sent previously. "My high school says they already sent it, but my college says they haven't received it." This is common. Request that your high school resend it. Follow up with both parties until resolved. "I'm taking summer courses before college. How do I handle those transcripts?" Inform your college of summer plans, and arrange for those transcripts to be sent as soon as grades are posted. Follow up and make sure they are received! "My college doesn't show my AP/IB credits yet. Should I be concerned?" Colleges typically process these credits during the summer. If they don't appear by your orientation, check with your advisor.

College orientation represents your official induction into campus life and sets the foundation for your entire college experience . By understanding its importance, preparing thoroughly, participating actively, and following through on next steps, you'll position yourself for a smoother transition and greater success in your college journey. Tips to Prepare for a Successful Orientation Before Orientation Begins Complete these preparations to maximize your orientation experience: Academic Preparation: Research general education and major requirements and make a list of questions Prepare questions about course selection and academic planning Take any required online placement tests or assessments Review your AP/IB/dual enrollment credits and how they apply; take a copy of your scores and transcripts with you Logistical Planning: Confirm orientation schedule and locations Arrange transportation to campus Book accommodations if needed (for you or family members) Pack appropriate attire (typically casual but respectable) Bring required identification and documents Technology Setup: Ensure access to your student portal and email Download any required apps or software Bring a laptop or tablet if recommended Question Preparation: Write down specific questions about your program List concerns about housing, dining, or campus life Prepare questions about financial aid or student accounts Consider what you need to know about any special support services you may need Think about involvement opportunities that interest you What to Bring to Orientation Essential Items: Government-issued photo ID Orientation confirmation materials Student ID number and login credentials Comfortable walking shoes Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended) Notebook and pen Water bottle Smartphone or camera Laptop or tablet (if specified) For Overnight Orientations: Bedding (some colleges will request that you bring pillows, sheets, towels, etc. so check first before you pack!) Toiletries, personal care items, medications Change of clothes and sleep attire For Parents/Family Members Attending: Separate list of questions and concerns Note-taking materials Campus map Comfortable walking shoes Patient, supportive attitude Maximizing the Orientation Experience During Academic Sessions Actively participate in advising sessions Take detailed notes about requirements and recommendations Ask questions about confusing policies or requirements Review your proposed schedule carefully before finalizing Get contact information for your advisor or department Understand add/drop policies and registration adjustment periods During Social Components Step outside your comfort zone to meet new people Exchange contact information with potential friends Ask current students about their experiences and advice Learn about clubs and organizations that align with your interests Explore campus beyond the standard tour routes Participate fully in activities, even if they seem awkward Administrative Tasks to Complete Verify your course registration before leaving orientation Confirm your housing assignment or selection Set up multi-factor authentication for account security Submit any outstanding documents identified during orientation Ensure financial aid and payment arrangements are confirmed Acquire your student ID card and understand its uses After Orientation: Next Steps Once orientation concludes, complete these follow-up actions: Review and save all materials provided during orientation Calendar important dates mentioned during sessions Connect with new acquaintances via social media or messaging Complete any unfinished tasks identified during orientation Begin planning for move-in day and the start of classes Address any remaining questions with appropriate departments Share important information with parents/family as appropriate

While attending a distant college creates additional logistical challenges, thousands of families successfully navigate these issues every year. With adequate planning, budgeting, and organization, you can manage the distance efficiently and focus on your college experience rather than travel logistics. Tips for Success Start planning early - begin thinking about travel logistics at least 3-4 months before move-in Create a master calendar with all travel dates, shipping deadlines, and storage arrangements Develop relationships with other students from your region for possible travel coordination Build flexibility into your travel plans when possible Stay informed about university break policies and deadlines Think "collapsible" for everything - store folded duffels under your bed all year for end-of-year packing Before every purchase, consider the May version of yourself trying to pack it all up Transportation Planning: Getting There and Back Initial Move-In Considerations Flying vs. Driving Options ( If you are taking your car to college, you will obviously be driving; otherwise you might consider which makes the most sense) Flying Advantages: Faster, potentially less stressful, may be cheaper for very long distances, may require that you buy some things once you arrive at your destination Driving Advantages: Ability to bring more belongings, no luggage restrictions, enables you to buy more things throughout the summer Hybrid Option: One-way car rental with drop-off near campus (particularly useful for initial move-in) If Flying to College Location for your Initial Move-In: Consider whether a parent/family member will accompany you Book tickets early for best prices (typically 2 months in advance) - note that as of today, Southwest Airlines has the most generous luggage policies. Research baggage policies and fees for your airline (see Smart Luggage Choices below) Look into shipping options for items that won't fit in luggage (see below for college shipping programs) Plan for airport-to-campus transportation (university shuttles, rideshare, public transit, rental car if your parents are coming) If Driving to College Location for your Initial Move-In: Calculate total driving time and plan overnight stops if needed Consider vehicle space limitations when planning what to bring If using a one-way rental, book well in advance as these are limited Holiday and Break Travel Planning Add Critical Dates to Calendar Immediately: Residence hall closing dates for Thanksgiving break Winter break move-out deadline Spring break dates Summer break move-out deadline Booking Strategies for Academic Year Travel: Purchase Thanksgiving and winter break tickets by early September Book spring break flights by January Consider refundable tickets or travel insurance for flexibility Use fare trackers (Google Flights, Hopper, etc.) to monitor price drops Look into student discounts through Student Universe, STA Travel If your college is some distance from an airport, book a shuttle 3-4 weeks in advance Travel Timing Tips: Schedule flights that don't conflict with final exams Allow buffer days between finals and flights home Consider extra days that might be needed for packing up prior to travel home If your college is in a winter location, consider flying back two days before classes resume to ensure that you leave a buffer for delayed travel Research when dorms reopen and whether early arrival is possible after breaks Packing and Shipping Strategies What to Bring vs. What to Buy There (If you are Flying) Bring from Home: Essential clothing and shoes Electronics and chargers Prescription medications Financial documents and ID Sentimental items Specialty items hard to find elsewhere Purchase After Arrival: Bedding and towels (many retailers offer in-store pickup near campus) Toiletries and cleaning supplies Desk supplies and organizational items Dorm decor and non-essential furnishings Winter gear (if not immediately needed) Bulky items (laundry hampers, storage bins) Consider Collapsibility in ALL Purchases: Prioritize items that can fold flat or be easily disassembled Choose fabric storage bins over rigid plastic ones Select collapsible laundry hampers rather than solid versions Opt for bedding that can be compressed in vacuum bags Consider whether items can be reasonably packed before purchasing them Remember that everything you bring or buy will need to be stored or transported home Strategic Shipping Options College-Specific Programs: Many universities offer very cost-effective shipping programs for incoming students: Ship2School (Boston University) Ship2Penn (University of Pennsylvania) Ship2Pitt (University of Pittsburgh) Similar programs at many major universities These programs typically allow you to ship items 2-3 weeks before move-in Boxes are delivered directly to your residence hall Registration deadlines are often in late July HINTS Buy the HEAVY DUTY BOXES from Home Depot!!!! Tape a location Tile to the inside of the box so that you can track where your boxes are and see when they arrive in your dorm room (or in rare cases, someone else’s on accident!) Commercial Shipping Options: Note: you must know where these can be delivered to on your college campus and how you will get them from that location to your dorm room! FedEx/UPS Ground (most economical for heavy items) USPS Media Mail (for books only - significant savings) Luggage shipping services (LugLess, Luggage Forward, Send My Bag) Specialized student shipping services (University Trucking, Dorm Room Movers) Comparing Typical Costs: Airline checked bag: $30-70 per bag (domestic), except for Southwest (as of April 2025) Overweight airline bag fees: $100-200 additional Ground shipping (UPS/FedEx): $15-50 for medium boxes Luggage shipping services: $40-100 per item Shipping Tips: Label all boxes clearly with your name, university, residence hall, and room number Use tracking on all shipments (consider taping a Tile into important boxes) Time arrivals for after your move-in date (not before) Keep essential items in your carry-on Take photos of valuable items before shipping Efficient Packing Techniques Space-Saving Methods: Vacuum bags for clothing and bedding Roll clothing instead of folding Use packing cubes for organization Pack smaller items inside shoes or hollow items Wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane Smart Luggage Choices: Invest in collapsible duffel bags that fold flat for storage under your bed If checking duffels on flights, make sure you know the maximum luggage dimensions to stay below the “extra large luggage fees” Consider lightweight luggage to maximize weight allowances I can vouch for THIS ONE ! Weight Distribution Tips: Distribute heavy items between bags to avoid overweight charges Weigh luggage before leaving for the airport Be prepared to repack at the airport if necessary Storage Solutions for Breaks Summer Storage Options The most desirable options will fill up fast, so you should be reserving summer storage in February or March. Mark your calendar NOW to remind you! On-Campus Storage: Many universities offer limited summer storage for international or distant students Apply early as space is typically limited Understand restrictions (usually no furniture or electronics) Near-Campus Commercial Storage: College-focused storage companies (University Storage, Campus Storage) Traditional self-storage facilities (Public Storage, Extra Space) Peer-to-peer storage options (Neighbor, Store With a Student) Pod-based storage (PODS, U-Pack) 

What to Buy (And What to Skip!) The excitement of setting up your first college living space can quickly turn overwhelming when faced with endless "college essentials" lists and dorm inspiration photos. This guide will help you prioritize purchases, decide on timing, and avoid common pitfalls that lead to wasted money and cluttered spaces. In addition, you can download this customizable college preparation and packing list for a complete list of items in each category. Before You Shop: The Research Phase Before purchasing a single item, complete these critical research steps to avoid costly mistakes: Residence Hall Information Most college housing websites provide specific details about your assigned building including: Room dimensions and layout Furniture provided (bed size, desk, dresser, etc.) Built-in storage options Window dimensions for curtains Flooring type (carpet vs. hard surface) Allowed and prohibited items Roommate Communication Coordinate with roommates about shared items to avoid duplicates: Refrigerator and microwave (if allowed) Fans TV and entertainment equipment Cleaning supplies Room decorations and color schemes Bathroom supplies (for suite-style housing) Purchase BEFORE Arrival You’ll want to purchase some items before you arrive on campus for convenience or for immediate need, limited local availability, or better selection/pricing at home or online. Things to consider buying early include: Bedding Essentials Bathroom Necessities Health and Safety Items Laundry Supplies Basic School Supplies and Desk Setup Purchase AFTER Arrival As fun as it may sound to plan every last dorm room decoration, you should consider buying some of these items AFTER you get into your room, see the space, and determine what really makes sense. Storage Solutions Room Decor Comfort Upgrades Kitchen/Food Items Additional Organization (As Needed) What to SKIP Entirely Save money and space by avoiding these commonly over-purchased items: Excessive Kitchenware Extensive cookware for rooms without kitchens Multiple small appliances (toasters, blenders) - they aren’t generally allowed in dorms Full dish sets when 1-2 multi-purpose containers suffice Duplicative Technology Printer (use campus resources first) TV (unless you've confirmed with roommates) Extra monitors (wait to see desk space) Oversized Furniture Additional seating without confirming space Large storage units without measuring Bulky decor items Prohibited Items Common restrictions include: Candles and incense Halogen lamps Heating elements (toasters, hot plates) Extension cords without surge protection Adhesive decorations that damage walls Pets (except approved service/support animals) *Always review your specific housing contract for prohibited items.  FULL COLLEGE PREPARATION AND PACKING LIST

When a student turns eighteen or enters college (whichever comes first), all privacy rights transfer from parent to student. Understanding these changes and making informed decisions about college information sharing is a crucial—but often overlooked—part of college preparation. This guide explains what you can expect and provides frameworks for having a conversation between parents and students about privacy, access, and legal authority. FERPA: Understanding Educational Privacy Rights What Is FERPA? The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. When a student turns eighteen or attends a postsecondary institution at any age, all privacy rights transfer from parents to the student. What This Means in Practice: Colleges cannot release education records to parents without student consent Parents cannot access grades, class schedules, or disciplinary records Financial aid information becomes private, even if parents are paying Health center and counseling records are protected College staff may refuse to discuss student matters with parents Information Protected by FERPA: Grades/transcripts Class schedules Financial aid details Academic standing Disciplinary records Housing information Course registration Billing information FERPA Waivers: Providing Parental Access What Is a FERPA Waiver? A FERPA waiver is a voluntary authorization signed by a student that grants specific individuals (typically parents) access to otherwise protected educational records. Important Characteristics of FERPA Waivers: Voluntary : Students cannot be forced to sign Specific : Can be limited to certain information Revocable : Students can cancel at any time Variable : Each college has its own process and forms How to Access and Complete FERPA Waivers: Look for FERPA release forms on the college's website (typically in the registrar or student services section) Complete during orientation or through the student portal Specify exactly what information can be shared and with whom Submit according to the college's procedure Keep copies of all signed waivers Common FERPA Waiver Categories: Academic Records : Grades, academic standing, course information Financial Records : Billing, payments, financial aid Student Conduct : Disciplinary actions and proceedings Health Information : May require separate authorization (see HIPAA section) The FERPA Conversation: A Framework for Families Before automatically signing (or not signing) FERPA waivers, students and parents should have a thoughtful conversation about information sharing. Here's a framework for that discussion: For Students to Consider: What level of privacy feels appropriate as you transition to adulthood? How involved have your parents been in your education historically? Do you anticipate needing parental guidance in certain areas? Are there specific records you're comfortable sharing vs. keeping private? What are the financial dynamics (who is paying for what)? For Parents to Consider: How can you support your student's growing independence? What information do you truly need versus want? How will you respond if you see information that concerns you? Can you establish trust-based communication rather than relying on formal access? Conversation Starters: "Let's talk about how we'll handle academic information now that you're in college." "I'd like to understand what access you're comfortable with me having to your college records." "Can we discuss how we'll communicate about grades and academic progress?" "What's a good balance between your privacy and our financial investment?" Potential Compromise Positions: Grade Check-Ins : Student agrees to share grade reports directly rather than giving portal access Conditional Access : FERPA waiver is signed but only invoked if GPA drops below a certain threshold Limited Scope : Waiver covers financial information but not academic records Time-Limited : Agreement to revisit the decision after the first semester

Steps to Take Before You Leave For College (or as soon as you complete orientation): Learn About Your Transportation Resources Make sure you learn: Campus shuttle routes and schedules (especially to medical facilities) Public transportation options near campus Trusted rideshare or taxi services in the area (and remember to install the app!) When and how to use campus security escorts for safe travel at night Prepare for Campus Security and Alerts Remember to: Register for the campus emergency alert system Download any campus security apps Understand security features in your residence hall Know locations of emergency phones or call boxes on campus, especially those that might be between your living space and any buildings you will be at in the evenings (the library, a late night class, etc.) Save Emergency Contacts on Your Phone Make sure these critical numbers are programmed into your phone AND saved somewhere else (like a notes app or small card in your wallet): Campus Emergency Number (often different from 911 on campus) Campus Police Non-Emergency Line (for safety concerns that aren't emergencies) Campus Health Center (main number and after-hours options) Resident Assistant (RA) contact information (once assigned) Parents contact information (in case of emergency) Secondary family contact (another relative who can be reached in emergencies) 988 (National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) Things to Remember Never walk with your earbuds in, even during the day! You need to be aware of your surroundings. Never walk alone at night, or walk with the campus assisted system that tracks your movement. Walk in well-lit, populated areas. It’s not worth taking the shortcut down the dark alley. Know where your campus Blue Boxes are before walking at night. If going to a party, stay together in groups of three or more - and don’t leave your drunk friend at a party, no matter how much they beg you to!

The financial relationship between students and parents will likely change during college. Having an open, honest conversation before leaving for school is essential. Key Topics for the "Money Talk" Regular Expenses: Who is responsible for tuition payments? Who will pay the monthly credit card bills? Who is responsible for monitoring the student's bank account? Will parents provide a monthly allowance for expenses? Who pays for meal plans, housing, books, and supplies? How will transportation costs (car, flights home) be handled? Discretionary Spending: What expenses are considered "extras" that the student should pay for themselves? Is there an expectation to work during school for spending money? Are there spending limits or guidelines parents expect students to follow? Emergency Situations: What constitutes a financial "emergency"? What is the process for requesting additional funds if needed? Is there an emergency credit card for specific situations? Oversight and Independence: Will parents have access to view student accounts? How often will you discuss financial matters? What level of financial privacy can you expect? Red Flags and Financial Pitfalls to Avoid: Be aware of these common financial dangers for college students: Overdraft fees: Spending more than is available Credit card debt accumulation: Making minimum payments and carrying balances Impulse spending: Making unplanned purchases, especially in groups Financial peer pressure: Trying to match others' spending habits Ignoring account alerts or bills: Leading to fees and credit damage Scams targeting students: Fake job offers, housing scams, identity theft Sharing financial credentials: Giving others access to your accounts Creating your College Budget A basic budget helps you track income and expenses, preventing financial surprises. Income Sources to Consider Parental contributions Scholarship or grant disbursements Work-study or part-time job earnings Summer job savings Financial aid refunds Expense Categories to Budget For Fixed Monthly Expenses: Rent (if living off-campus) Phone bill Streaming services subscriptions Insurance payments Transportation (car payment, bus pass) Variable Expenses: Groceries and dining out School supplies Entertainment and social activities Personal care items Clothing Travel home