Seriously? Ironing at college? I doubt it.

Dear Kid,

The university sent  a list of things they think you should bring when you start school in the fall. Whoever authored the list completely ignored the whole clothing angle—which I think was quite bright on their part.

What intrigued me was that they had thoughtfully gone through the list and put an asterisk next to items they considered essential.

Speaking for College Student Moms everywhere, I’m not sure they got it right.

For example, the essential list included a DVD player (but a tv was optional) and a music/MP3 player. The non-essential list included an alarm clock, ironing board, hangers, writing implements, and notebooks.

NOW HEAR THIS:

I can’t imagine you wanting to take an ironing board to college. Most of your clothes are permanent press, and I just don’t see wrinkles as being a big concern in your life. Even if you wanted to take an iron (which I doubt), I assume you’d figure out a way to press clothes without an ironing board. Caveat: On Pinterest, I saw clever interesting desperate way to heat up pizza using an iron and a hairdryer, since you have no need of a hairdryer the iron seems pointless. Also the list included a microwave.

An alarm clock, however, is (imho) an Essential Item for College Success. Yes, I know your phone has an alarm feature on it, but I just don’t think it’s the same. Maybe I’m old fashioned (OK—I’m definitely old fashioned) but there is something about an alarm clock that is different from a phone alarm. If nothing else, you can put an alarm clock on the other side of the room (where the snooze button is out of reach) for days when you Must Get To Class On Time. I can’t see you doing that with a phone.

They also left Oreos and Doritos off the list, and if there is a way to get through finals without those I never figured it out. Maybe they figured you could purchase those closer to exam time.

Looks like we’ll have to put our heads together and work on a revised/supplemental list. <grin> And find some current college kids who can provide Useful Insight about the essentials for dorm life.

Although regardless of their opinion, you’re still taking an alarm clock.

Love, Mom