The Sticky Details: 7 things to take care of before the school year starts.
1. Create your Virginia Tech PID and password by going here. Your PID and password will be the key to managing just about every aspect of your college life, everything from registering for classes, to accessing the on-campus wireless network. Set it up early and make sure you write it down.
2. Get in touch with your roommate(s). Not only is it useful to know what sort of person you're living with, you'll also want to coordinate on who's bringing what so you don't waste money and space. You'll specifically want to coordinate on things you'll only need one of, like microwaves, mini-fridges, and televisions. And don't worry if you're not sure how to get in touch with your roommate, we post all that information on Hokie SPA on July 31, along with all your housing information.
3. Make sure you stock up on the following: quarters (for laundry), ear plugs (to block out residence hall noise), and duct tape (for whatever).
4. Memorize your important numbers. You'll especially want to know your Student ID number (on your Hokie Passport), your PID and password (see number 1), your Social Security number, and any PIN numbers you may need for banking. Unfortunately, writing it on your hand doesn't count as memorizing.
5. Verify your health coverage. We know it doesn't sound that interesting, especially when compared to number 4 (memorizing!), but without health insurance, you could end up overpaying by thousands of dollars for basic injuries or health problems. If you don't have a health insurance plan, Virginia Tech strongly recommends signing up with a reputable insurance agency before the school year begins. Likewise, the Virginia Tech Office of Risk Management offers coverage for students. Information is available here.
6. Have your mom or dad teach you how to do laundry. Remember, you'll be watching after yourself now and you don't want to spend the whole year washing your clothes in fabric softener (although they would be really soft). Take an hour one weekend and find out how the magic happens. We'll give you a hint: it's not gnomes.
7. Spend quality time with your family and high school friends. Even though the transition to college can be busy and stressful, it is still summertime. Don't forget to put some vacation in there and spend time with the people who matter.