Have U Heard that when a student moves into an off-campus apartment, they generally sign a lease for twelve months? So looking to sublease can be a challenge. (It is a 10-month lease that prorates apartments, so it gets paid over 12 months). Most leases run mid to late August through – July 31/Aug 1. Unlike most dorms, students are responsible for the entire year, even if they do not intend to stay for the summer. However, most apartment complexes will allow students to sublet their apartments. You will, nevertheless, have to jump through a few hoops to make it happen.

To find a sublessor for the summer, it is best to start looking at the semester before (in the fall). It may seem a bit early, but there are usually more available apartments looking for sublessors than there are people looking to sublet. Post on Facebook pages and begin asking around in December. Get the word out there if you are in a sorority or fraternity or involved in any sort of club. Take it if you can make an arrangement with someone you trust early. Do not count on getting your full rent covered. Most people tend to give up their summer leases, so finding someone to take over your lease in the summer can be tricky. Most girls in sororities will have to come back two weeks before the start of school, and many of them will not be able to move into their apartments yet. Be on the lookout for posts around mid/late summer because girls will be looking to sublease for those two weeks out of August, which would still give you back half of your monthly rent. Something is better than nothing, though.

If you want someone to take over for the fall semester, try looking at the summer before. Many people sign a lease and find options that better suit them last minute. If you are looking for a spring sublease, this may be a bit tough since most people have already signed year leases. Definitely start posting in the fall semester (around October/November). There are students that decide to take a semester off or go abroad and are committed to a year’s lease. Finding one of these with roommates you will be happy to live with can get complicated, but it is definitely possible.

The most popular way students find those willing to sublease is through the USF/HCC Sublease Facebook pages.  Also, check out Facebook pages related to Roommates, Off-Campus Housing & Apartments.  Make sure your parents join a USF Parent Facebook page, as there are always posts shared by parents trying to help their students with their housing dilemmas.  Believe it or not, parents have helped many students find their roommates or housing choices simply by connecting their students to those in need. Other places to look are Live Somewhere, USF U Loop, and Off-Campus Housing.

Some apartment complexes charge a sublet fee. Most all require signed forms with complete information on your sublessor. It is to your advantage to play by the rules and be sure all forms and fees are taken care of because, without them, you (the original renter) are responsible for any damage that may occur in your absence…and it happens. As a matter of fact, all renters may be responsible if they cannot be sure who caused the damage. You will hear stories of students being charged for a broken appliance, even though they were studying outside the country, simply because their name was still on the lease.

Depending on how much you will be getting for the sublet, once the fees are paid, you may also want to consider the cost of storing your student’s belongings during the duration of the sublet. Check out our blog on storage here.

Another resource is apartmentsforbulls.com, which is a guide to Tampa apartments that meet your lifestyle and budget.

The post Planning to Sublease an Apartment at USF appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Prepare yourself as you read this: breathe. Just when you think your student has figured out how to navigate the campus, be successful in their classes, and do their laundry, they will start talking about where they want to live off-campus in the next year. Believe it or not, this will start in about October or November of your student’s freshman year. This is no joke, and unfortunately, good apartments go fast, so they will be talking and planning early.

If your child decides to go this route, remember that leases are signed as early as February, and some places can be sold out by the end of March. They will probably have roommates in mind and will also have places that they already know about or are interested in. So, at least, they will have done most of the legwork.

Prices can be a little shocking. Figure rents are between $600-$800 monthly for a 12-month lease. Smaller floor plans with fewer roommates are more expensive, and the farther from campus, the lower the rents are generally. Usually, rents include parking, cable, and other utilities, but be sure to find out. Since many apartments cater to college students, they may have free shuttles to campus, and some are within walking distance.

Another shocker is the layouts of some apartments. These are not your “back in the day” apartments. Now, apartments offer each resident their own bathroom, a locking door, individual leases, spa-like pools, amazing game rooms, movie rooms, fitness centers, and computer labs. Be prepared to co-sign their lease. At most places, you are signing for just their room and bathroom, so there’s no having to split the rent. I was shocked when I saw my daughter’s apartment. It was so pretty and cozy and was like a resort. College living has definitely changed.

Pets & Furniture

Regarding pets, yes, many places take them, but you may have to pay a separate deposit or sign an actual pet lease. You may say, “My kid won’t have a pet,” but beware. For some reason, many students feel the urge to adopt an animal once they are living the apartment life. Be sure to check the rules out with the leasing offices. And as far as furniture goes, many places now come furnished or offer to rent furniture to you. This is a great option for moving in and out and can be a lot with an apartment full of furniture. If not, lots of seniors sell their stuff, and Tampa has a lot of used furniture stores. There may also be a gap between leases or for the summer, so storage can also be an issue. Lots of places don’t like to offer short-term contracts, but there are some just for college students that do. (See our Moving Out blog for more information on storage and moving).

Details

Renters’ insurance is not something to ignore. Many homeowners’ policies may cover them while they are living off-campus. Be sure to check the terms and see if they offer a separate renters policy at a good rate. USF Federal Credit Union offers policies that may have better rates as well. Some complexes will even provide insurance for an additional monthly fee.

Be sure to find out if utilities are included in the rent. Many complexes cover them, but some put caps on electricity, with the overages split evenly among the residents of the apartment. If not, one person will have to put the utilities in their name and collect the money for the bill monthly. Parking is always an important detail to clarify. Most of the apartments around USF have ample parking for their tenants. They all have a preferred/reserved parking option which will cost approximately $75 per month in addition to the monthly rental fee. Take 100 pictures, then take 20 more time-stamped. You could be charged for damages to the apartment if you have not documented everything. Prepare for those charges.

When your kid starts talking about apartments, have them send you the links to the ones they are interested in. Look up their safety ratings and crime reports. Call and ask if they allow students to defer the payments until financial aid comes in. Some places do. These are details that your child may not think about. Depending on your child, living on campus in a Sorority house may be available. It can be a good option as well. Be sure to check out our Apartment blog for more information.

Another resource is apartmentsforbulls.com, which is a guide to Tampa apartments that meet your lifestyle and budget.

The post Off-Campus Living and How to Manage appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

Remember friends told you that the first year goes by fast?  Well, by now, you know that to be true. Prepping to move your kid out of a dorm, sorority house, or apartment may seem strange because it feels like you just dropped them off!  The worst part of moving out is always the heat, but your student may turn around in just a few weeks to move back somewhere. Instead of worrying about how you will get all their stuff back, start planning now and get some tips on managing the gap.

One of the best things you can do is have your student start bringing things home over Spring Break or if you visit.  On one of my visits in the spring, I had my daughter pack up her “winter” clothes/boots (yes, they do wear them in FL), and some other clothes that she knew she could live without.  She also packed up some decorations, books, and extra school supplies. I brought them home, and she brought even more over Spring Break. It does help with the move-out, especially because you want it to go fast.  If your student lives a plane ride away, they can start thinking of filling a Goodwill bag or two and organizing things.

There is no worry if your daughter is going through a sorority rush.  At USF, it starts after school starts. There is no need to move in early for Rush.  If your student lives in a sorority house or will be moving into the same apartment again, they should be fine.  If it is a new apartment, it will depend on how quickly they can flip it and have it ready. Check with the complex about moving in early if needed.  Some will have a prorated fee involved.

For students who are graduating at the end of the summer, classes end on August 2nd yet many of the leases go through July 31st. If your student gets stuck with a gap and needs a place to stay in between move-out and graduation or move-in, have them check with the apartment complex to see if they will extend their lease, they can check with friends. Some friends with apartments may open them to our students for a week.  Sometimes a roommate may move out early and have an empty room that your child can use. It all takes planning and communication. It’s not ideal to have to move while studying. You can also look at an inexpensive hotel or Airbnb.

Now, what to do with all of their stuff?  If they are staying on someone’s couch for a while, then they will need to store their things.  Again, planning early is key. Short-term storage is not impossible to find, but I suggest inquiring early.  USF recommends a few options. Check out our blogs on Moving Out and Storage.

Another resource is apartmentsforbulls.com, which is a guide to Tampa apartments that meet your lifestyle and budget.

The post Where Will They Live – Managing the Gap appeared first on HaveUHeard.com.

You may be surprised at how one can transition a mass-produced, industrial-looking dorm room into a warm and inviting room or suite. And there is plenty of help out there to spur ideas and help you organize. Organization is the primary concern, because after all if your kids are like mine, they will feel the need to take almost all their stuff from home to settle them in as though there are no laundry facilities or stores nearby.

Pinterest seems to be the holy grail for dorm ideas. There are so many there, that you will feel pressured and anxious to make your students’ room look award-winning.  But fear not! Stick to the important subject of organization first. Of course, decorating a girl’s room can be very different from a boy, but the basics remain the same.  Either way, check the bed size of the dorm your child will be living in. The beds, usually twin extra-long beds and many stores start selling these sheet sets over the summer. The bed-in-a-bag can be a great choice as it provides many pieces at once – and they all match.

In addition, we highly recommend a mattress encasement. It protects from bugs, allergies, and who knows what else. My student really appreciated a mattress topper. I invested in a thicker one of better quality which made the commercial mattress much more comfortable. A fun throw pillow or two is always fun.  Boys aren’t always interested in throw pillows, but school blankets and posters help to dress up their rooms too.

Some dorms allow for the beds to be turned into bunk style. This makes for more living space in the room. If not, purchasing bed risers can create useful space under the bed for things like plastic drawers or a mini-fridge.  Check to see if the dorm provides one. Recently we came across Dorm Room Bed Skirt Panels which are long and can cover all the junk that ends up getting stored below the bed. There are fun ottomans that provide both storage and extra seating space for when their friends come to hang out. Some dorms provide a hutch over the desk, but if not, they can easily be bought.  They will need a place for their books, a printer, a desk lamp, and possibly a microwave or coffee maker. There are clever little shelves that attach to the side of the bed that are rather useful to hold their phone, glasses, drinks, etc.

Clever and Chic

Most girls like to jazz it up, and why not? If possible suggest they check with their roommate before you begin multiple trips to Bed Bath and Beyond, etc. Did I mention that you should start collecting those coupons now? Sign up for their emails too.  They will send you a 20% off entire purchase coupon one time a year. It’s not always the same time of year, but it is coveted by many college moms. Together they may decide on specific colors or a theme.

Lately, covering the walls in big tapestries is the rage. A great place to get ideas (and shop) is Tapestry Girls, a one-stop-shop for small space decorating and inspiration designed for fashion and budget-minded. Visit Tapestry Girls today and use code HAVEUHEARD at checkout for an additional $5 off any order.

My daughter has turned to Etsy to purchase many of her dorm decor including wall art. Etsy is a great place to shop as many items are more reasonably priced than the national retailers and they have unique items. Simply search dorm decor and start your search. It is actually a great idea because in some of the older dorms the walls are pretty beat up.  It can be difficult to hang things because they will have to sign something after the move-in inspection, but no worries; because Command hooks and strips have you covered and come in pretty and functional, as well as clear forms. HaveUHeard that you need to apply rubbing alcohol first before hanging the command strip or it won’t adhere? Candles are not allowed in the dorms, but there are so many cute LED candles out there now. Area rugs also warm up a room, especially since the floors are either cold linoleum or drab carpet.

We like Wayfair for its wide selection of decor and goods. There is a good reason that their tagline is “A Zillion Things Home.” Simply type dorm room in the search box and start shopping. Of course, an online store aptly named Overstock simply means you can find some great deals. They have an entire back to campus selection that covers every possible category. Type dorm into a search box and get ready to shop. Two other online retailers we like for their dorm room and accessories are Dormify and PBTeen.

Another popular item is string lights.  My favorite is the ones that have clips to hold photos too.  You can even purchase headboards, which look pretty but be sure your daughter and roommate don’t intend to bunk the beds or put them on risers.  Girls always seem to need a long mirror. Check out the ones that hang on a door and open to store jewelry and/or accessories. If they know their roommate’s name, a custom dorm room sign is a great way to make them feel at home. There are virtual tours of decorated dorms on YouTube which can help you to “see” decoration ideas.  Also, consider the type of dorm your child will be in. There are different styles ranging from the traditional, suite, women only, and apartment-style. Check the recommended items list.

The Guys

I haven’t forgotten about the guys out there; there just isn’t as much to say.  My friends with boys tell me that it takes half the time to set up a boy’s room than to set up a girl’s. Dormify introduced a guy’s collection which is worth checking out. Basically, they will need the same essentials, but as far as décor goes, most boys are happy with a poster or two and possibly a flag or banner. Bull paraphernalia is usually a hit too and Etsy has some great items including a rustic wood wall sign. Bulls paraphernalia is usually a hit too. We know the guys will love some of the USF decor from Bed, Bath & Beyond.

My only other advice is to start shopping early, remember hooks to hang the shower curtain (and be sure at least one person brings one), have items on hold to pick up at a local Tampa store if possible, and bring tools, double-sided tape, and patience. Don’t forget the cleaning supplies. While we’d like to say our students will keep their space clean, at least if we give them supplies, we may have a fighting chance.

For our complete list of the top items they need for college. And, if you want to get an idea of what each dorm is like, make sure you check out our Insider’s Guide to Campus Dorm Living.

Pass on these great tips, tell your friends and like us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest. Find out more about how to use HaveUHeard as a great resource. Sign up for other great tips at haveuheard.com.

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Moving In

Once your student has been given their move-in date and dorm or residence assignment, the process of handling what can be a stressful, labor-intensive and often expensive process begins. The actual moving in! Traditionally, female students tend to take a full-on decorating approach complete with wall décor, signs, picture frames, string lights, desk accessories, and many other decorative items. Male students do not quite go that full in and often just want a comfortable bed, maybe a poster or two and perhaps a rug. It is quite humorous after each drop-off, whether it is for summer or fall, to see my friend’s postings on Facebook and Instagram, (because that is the social media that parents are most comfortable with), and see the obvious difference between a completed dorm room.

This may a sticker price shock moment. According to the National Retail Federation, back to college spending averaged $976.78 in 2019. This is big business with college checklists resembling the lists usually reserved for wedding/bridal registries and baby shower registries. If you go to the many college dorm checklists, you will be faced with a list filled with items you may have never considered. Some, like gaming systems, seems a bit far-fetched. You are not looking to entertain your students for the next four years; just to set up a comfortable room where they can study, relax and feel a bit of that home feeling they left behind.

Move-In Tips
Let’s break this down with some tips for both genders:

• If you have a student living in a dorm, the beds are not necessarily the most comfortable. You will want to get a mattress protector pad, mattress cover and for the best comfort, a memory foam mattress topper. You will find these at Target, Walmart, Bed Bath & Beyond and many department stores. Consider this a short term item as many students who move into apartments their second year will probably have a full or queen size mattress.
• You will need a minimum of two sets of sheets (fitted. Many students do not use flat) plus pillowcases. No one is saying that they need the top thread count but certainly try to get a set that will not pill after one wash. They will want to wash their sheets once a week minimally (we hope) so two should be sufficient.
• Next, most will want a comforter or duvet cover. Throw in an extra blanket as the dorm rooms tend to be kept very cold. A floor rug, if they have hard floors, is not a bad investment but check first to see if the room is carpeted. Not the Persian variety but just a rug that will cover some of the floor surfaces between the traditional two-bed dorm rooms. A 5’ x 7’ should be sufficient although you may consider a 7’ x 9’.
• Another item that you may want to buy once you are in the room and set up, is a blackout shade. Most dorm window coverings are basic plastic blinds. Depending on the direction their room faces, there is nothing worse than being woken by a bright sun shining in your eye particularly during daylight savings periods when the sun rises well before 7 am. Again, this tends to be a gender preference but some also will like to hang drapes. A word of caution, you are not supposed to put nails/holes in the walls except where otherwise allowed so plan accordingly.
• Some of the newly designed dorms have walk-in closets which are amazing but for those old-fashioned room setups, where there is no closet door, you will need to purchase a curtain or panel, a tension curtain rod, and clip rings.
• If your college student is planning on having a television in their room, you will need a coaxial cable. Extension cords are also a much-needed item. We would recommend using one that is both double and triple-pronged.
• Many students also like to have a mini-refrigerator in their room. Some roommates may share the refrigerator so that determines the size, but some may prefer their own. Many stores, such as Best Buy, will allow you to order it online and arrange to pick it up or have a family member or friend pick it up, at the store of your choosing.
• Most dorm check-in processes allow you to use their hand truck. Many of the hand trucks/flatbed hand trucks are collapsible so bringing your own, if you have one, is highly recommended as you may not be able to get your hands (no pun intended) on one.  We brought two with us and each of us loaded them up. I left one for my daughter so she can use it to move out at the end of the semester.
• You will need to check with allowable items but you may want to consider purchasing a small microwave as well.
• Another great item to have is an electric kettle. This heats water up in seconds and can be used not only for hot tea and instant coffee or hot chocolate but also for most instant prepared foods.
• A Brita water filtration system is also recommended instead of the wasteful yet convenient plastic bottles.  For one, plastic bottles do not have fluoride so unless your student is using a fluoride added toothpaste or mouth rinse, they do run the risk of cavities should they not have any fluoride.
• One of her suitemates brought a Keurig coffee maker. If you have a student who cannot live without hot coffee, this is very convenient, but definitely more expensive, way to have coffee. There are countless Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts on campus and close by but having your students make their own is often more economical.
• If your student is like mine, there just is not enough closet and drawer space to accommodate all of her clothes/shoes/dry goods/toiletries/medicines, etc. That is where the under-the-bed plastic drawer system comes in handy. The problem you may face is availability. Her roommate’s parents had to drive over 8 miles to a farther location to secure these drawers. Here are a few tips. Either bring them with you if your vehicle space allows or order ahead of time. Besides Target and Walmart which is where most will head, consider Office Depot, TJ Maxx, HomeGoods, Marshalls or Ross. We purchased ours at Office Depot so with the 20% off coupon I had, it was comparably priced.
• Instead of a traditional iron and ironing board, consider using the now popular mini hand steamers. They are very easy to use and work just as well. Some dorms are starting to disallow traditional irons. If your child will not iron, buy a large bottle of the wrinkle release spray.  It works wonders.
• Here’s a great item, especially if your student needs a step-stool to reach bed (some of them raise them or some are bunk beds) is a storage ottoman. Clearly, by its name, you can see it can be used for storage but it is a more decorative way for them to climb into bed. Most of the stores were sold out when we got to campus, so we would recommend either bringing it with you (and store stuff in it) or ordering online.
• A small fan is a great thing to have because sometimes a little white noise can help keep you calm in your room and drown out unwanted noise. Plus, the dorms’ air temps can be very different, so it’s a great thing to have.

And…Remember to keep all receipts for purchases.  Not only will you need to add things, but you may also find that some things just may not fit or are not needed.  Print this checklist too.  It has needed items to bring, as well as what not to bring. Your student will also get a list of events held during the move-in week.  They are a great way to get familiarized with the school and to meet people.

Pass on these great tips, tell your friends and like us on Facebook, Instagram,  Twitter, and Pinterest. Sign up for other great tips at haveuheard.com. Are you new to HaveUHeard? Here is how to best use the site.

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Being the oldest sibling in my family, going into college I had no idea what to expect. Of course, my parents had their own advice to give, but as we all know, the time has changed abundantly since our parents were in college. Now, almost halfway done with being an undergraduate student, there are many things I wish I could go back and tell my freshman-self before becoming a proud Bull. Through my trials and tribulations, I have made some unforgettable memories and I hope to save some freshmen from the not-so-fun lessons I had to learn along the way. Here is the advice I would have given to myself:

Your first choice may not always be the best choice: since USF was not originally my first-choice school, I had a tough time having a good mindset on my next four years in the beginning. However, I soon realized USF was just the type of school I needed and now I’m proud to be a bull. 

Join Greek life or some type of organization: although I always knew that I wanted to be involved in Greek life, never in my wildest dreams could I imagine the positive impact it would have in my life. However, since Greek life may not be for everyone, don’t be discouraged, there are so many other great organizations on campus to get involved in to make the most of your college experience. 

Everyone is in the same boat: everyone is trying to adjust to their new life as well. You’re not alone!

Find resources on campus: almost every class you take has office hours, exam reviews, study groups, and tutors. If you’re struggling with a class, get help!

Join a professional organization related to your major: professional organizations can give you amazing networking opportunities while also giving you more experience in your field. Additionally, joining can help you connect with fellow students in the same field. 

Get out of your comfort zone: the greatest memories I had so far have come from experiences where I have done something I never thought I would.

Do not take 8 am classes: I had to learn this the hard way and I can confidently say, they are absolutely nothing like waking up for high school. If you can avoid an 8 am, I would recommend it at all costs. 

It’s okay to not know your major: some students come to college knowing exactly what they want to major, however, the majority of students don’t and it is very common to change your major throughout college. So, if you’re not passionate about your major, don’t be discouraged, talk to your advisor; they’re here to help you.

You do not have to go to every party you’re invited to. Though you may experience some serious FOMO (fear of missing out), rest assured that there will be many more parties to come and sometimes you have to put your health, sleep, and school work first. 

Set the due dates for your assignments as the date before it’s actually due. This is a foolproof way to outsmart the serial procrastinator in all of us. It is always better to have extra time and not rush through important assignments. 

Your planner is your best friend. Pick a planner that aligns with your lifestyle and use it for everything! You can even get a free planner in the student center. 

Go Exploring. Even if USF is close to home, there are so many things Tampa has to offer from the city to the beaches. You can make new memories in old places with the right friends. 

It’s okay to ask for help. No one expects you to have it all together in your early 20’s.

College truly will be all that you make of it, so make it great!!

Lindsay Fine, USF Intern

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At this time in our world, we all worry about the safety of our new adults. For me, a self-proclaimed worrier, I wanted to know everything about the safety of my child’s new home, as well as them learning the ins and outs of campus safety.  Knowing they are safe is a forever thing. Therefore, it may be helpful to know that USF has a few very supportive resources available. The University of South Florida takes safety very seriously.  Technology has changed the landscape of how they impart information to students through texts and emails, and social media platforms.

**Due to these unprecedented times we also wanted to make available to you the following: Parents/students can now email  COVIDquestions@usf.edu for questions USF is offering emergency aid to those who have been impacted by COVID19 through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: in order to apply you have to fill out the Federal CARES Act Emergency Financial Aid Application.

And all the time….

The SAFE Team is a group of screened students that can escort anyone from one point to another.  They use golf carts and also walk with students to ensure their safety to their destination.  Their hours are 6:30 pm – 2:30 am seven days a week. Their phone number is 813-974-7233. Make sure your student puts this number in their phone.  We taught our children about the “buddy system” when they were little, but as college students, it can be even more imperative to use.

Alert Cab is a free taxi ride from an alcohol-serving establishment to a residence in Hillsborough County. Students using this service must attend the University of South Florida and be 21+ to use the service. Taxi cabs only hold 4 people.  No one wants our students to drink and drive, or to hop in a car with someone who has been drinking. This service is invaluable to our older students.

The MoBull Messenger is part of the university’s emergency notification system that allows your student to receive text messages informing them of any emergency situation related to campus.  All students, as well as faculty and staff, are encouraged to sign up for the notifications. Students must sign up for the service by logging on to their NetID Account.

All across campus, there are 90 blue emergency lights set on poles.  If a student is feeling uncomfortable, unsafe, or sees a crime being committed, they can pick up the phone located on the pole and a police officer will be at that location within minutes.

There’s also another way that you can enhance personal safety measures. Working like a “pocket blue phone,” Guardian, an initiative implemented by USF’s Division of Public Safety, turns a cell phone into a mobile safety device when subscribers activate a “precautionary timer” as they travel from one area of the campus to another. The timer is set as the individual leaves a location and will alert the University Police if that person does not call to cancel the timer in a specified amount of time.  There is no charge for the Guardian service for USF students, faculty and staff.  It is a voluntary, opt-in program and the location and personal information of a subscriber are only accessible by emergency personnel when contact is initiated by the individual. To sign up for Guardian, simply log on to www.mobull.usf.edu and follow the steps. It takes only minutes to add this safety feature to your cell phone.

The university police department also offers many classes such as self-defense, as well as programs and information helping with relationship violence, alcohol abuse, and sexual violence.

Contacts Galore

I also recommend getting your student’s roommates and/or a close friend’s contact information. There is nothing worse than not being able to find your student; and although it may be as simple as he forgot to charge his phone, she fell asleep at the sorority house or lost her phone under a pile of laundry and is so busy studying she didn’t realize it was gone. (Do not laugh; I have lived through all three.) This being said, remind your student to not walk anywhere alone (particularly at night) or put themselves in dangerous situations. As any campus police will tell you, crime is always based on opportunity so if you remove the opportunity, in most instances, you can exist safely on campus.

I would also make certain you have your student’s Find My Phone login information. They may resist, but perhaps you can make a promise not to abuse its benefits in order to make them less resistant. You can also explain how, should they go missing (see a, b, and c above), a cell phone allows the police or anyone else to track your student’s recent activity. Of course, if the phone is shut down it has no service, but it will give the most recent usage.  I can’t tell you how many times I have heard stories about children who couldn’t be reached for hours at a time, putting the parents into a major tailspin, only to find their son/daughter simply forgot to tell his/her roommate he/she was sleeping somewhere else. Avoid this situation at all costs and remind your kids to always contact someone (roommate, suitemate, BFF) of their whereabouts, especially if they are not going to be sleeping in the room. Sure, sometimes it is not planned, but social media is so prevalent that there are no reasons to not let someone else know their whereabouts.

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Ok, I have only sent one child to college, but it really only takes one send off to learn the ins and outs of what a freshman college student really needs. What to bring and what not to bring.  I spent months searching for packing lists, shopping, organizing, and running myself ragged to find the “perfect” items that would make my daughter feel great in her new home away from home.  I will admit: I was a little obsessed.

Now that my daughter is entering her third year, I can provide sound advice on what to leave at home. For girls rushing a sorority, leave your t-shirts at home.  Ok, so bring a couple maybe. Trust me when I say that you will get so many t-shirts from your sorority, events, free Bulls shirts from around campus, and many more, that your drawer or storage bin won’t be able to hold them all.

Leave your printer at home.  You can print anything right on campus, and most apartments also have printing centers where you can print for free.  You just provide your own paper. Read our blog on printing information. You do not need curtains.  You will see pics online of dorms with a cute matching curtain to cover the open closets but trust me when I say that they become annoying and end up falling a lot anyway.

Leave Alexa and Echo at home.  You need to remember that rooms are small and sometimes your device will hear others’ voices and no one wants random commands messing up their playlists. Think seasonally.  You don’t need “winter” clothes till Tampa temps begin to lower.  It will be hot through Thanksgiving, typically. You simply will not be able to bring your wardrobe from home with you.

As far as kitchen items, don’t go crazy and stock up on gadgets and gourmet items.  You won’t use them in the dorms, even if you are not on a meal plan. And if you are in an apartment, plan what is needed with your roommates, so everyone does not bring a 10-piece set of cookware.

We asked some freshman who lived in the Village, which is one of the newer dorms, what the thought was useful. They said they used: mini-fridge, desk lamp, Brita filter, 10 ft charging cords, grid board, and mattress topper.  And didn’t use: microwave, as there is one on every floor, closet curtains, shoe rack, and printer.  Note: this would apply to the newer dorms for the microwave because the older dorms may not have a microwave on every floor.

Leave the TV at home too. Really, you will rarely use it.

Communication is key when preparing your arrival at school.  If you must have a coffee pot, microwave, shower curtain, etc. then get with the roommates so that everyone does not bring the same things.  You will end up bringing a few things home, but prior organization and communication will make the move-in process easier. With so many great deals out there on  Overstock, Wayfair, Dormify, and Amazon in addition to the traditional big box stores like Bed Bath & Beyond, Kohl’s,  Walmart and Target, if you plan in advance, you may be able to save some money too and not end up running around buying items that you will end up having to return.

For a complete list of what to bring to USF.

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Not Your Momma’s Apartment

Just when you think you have your student all settled in the dorms, chances are you will be hit with the “wanting to move to an apartment” talk. Students quickly learn that the hunt and race to get a good apartment are fierce, and one must start early. They are not kidding. I hadn’t even memorized my daughter’s dorm address when she told me she and some friends would start looking for apartments for the NEXT school year!

Yes, dorms are convenient, but when you see what apartments offer today, you won’t be shocked at the yearning to live off-campus.  They are nothing like when I lived in an apartment one mile from campus. My roommate and I scoured the Salvation Army for cheap but clean furniture and split everything down the middle.  Today, some apartments come furnished, and the amenities resemble popular hotels. Some have granite countertops, new appliances, resort-style pools, happy hours, electric bikes, and tanning beds.

Obviously, the closer to campus is the easiest, but it may also be the most expensive.  Don’t fear to venture a few miles from campus. Check to see if the BullRunner bus system stops at the apartment you are looking at.  That can help with the dreaded “trying to find a parking spot” on campus.

Now, be prepared.  The rent prices can be shocking, but remember that they may be fully furnished, along with washers/dryers, and include utilities.   A one-bedroom will be much pricier than a four-bedroom/bathroom, and most have individual leases. I do love that idea. Each person is responsible for their own rent payment.  No more collecting the money from everyone and one person paying the office. Also, most everything is done online and with an app. Like the rest of the world, convenience is key.

Again, some apartments come fully furnished, and some do not.  Take that into account with the rent price. Most leases are for 12 months, so summer planning needs to be considered.  Check sublet policies with the offices if you will not be there for summer. There are many posts for students subletting their apartments either over the summer or studying abroad; be prepared to pay rent even if your student is not at USF. Parking may be extra, and they all have different pet policies, so take note. Some of the apartments accept pets.

Some apartments to take note of:

Halo 46  – 14500 N 46th St, Tampa, FL 33613. Only a three-minute drive from USF. Offers 2 -5 bedroom floor plans. Amenities include Alexa in every unit, a 24-hour fitness center, a pool, study rooms, and walk-in closets. A very popular place to live and in a safe area.

IQ Apartments – 12702 Bruce B Downs Blvd Tampa, FL 33612 Conveniently located near the University of South Florida’s medical library, IQ is the ideal home for those looking for a highly-styled environment in which to learn, work and play. With state-of-the-art amenities and features, IQ brings modern luxury to the heart of Tampa.1 to 4 bedrooms.

Venue at North Campus – 13702 N. 42 St. 813-413-4588.  These are fully furnished and fully inclusive. They have studios to 5-bedroom townhomes.  They are affiliated with USF and have individual leases; the rest are from $699 to $1299/month per room.

The Province –  10921 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612. American Campus Community. It offers 1-4 bedrooms, two swimming pools, a volleyball court, a theatre room, a community kitchen, and a 24-hour fitness center. Parking included. Walk or drive to campus. This complex is affiliated with USF.

The Retreat at Tampa – 11326 N. 46 St. 813-379-2415.  This is across the street from USF and one mile from the Sun Dome. They offer individual leases, are pet-friendly, have an optional furniture package, and have 2-4-bedroom homes. They have their own dog park!

40Fifty Lofts – 4050 Rocky Cr. 813-673-8300.  They are a USF affiliate and offer 3-4 bedrooms, furnished.

The Flats at 4200 – 4200 E. Fletcher Ave. 813-517-1366.  This is right across from campus, and they offer furnished studios with four bedrooms.  They only rent to students and have individual leases; rents are $740-$1125/month. Parent opinion of  The Flats is high, although pricey.

Other newer apartments:

The Standard – Landmark Properties has built luxury-style apartments on many college campuses, and the USF location is new.  They have a lot of floor plans from 1 to 5 bedrooms. Amenities include an arcade/game room, lounge, computer lab, rooftop pool, gym, and a PGA-quality golf simulator. Apartments are furnished and include wifi, cable, waste disposal, and pest control, but utilities and parking are not included. They have a garage, and for $45, you can park on your own floor. Exterior parking is $15 a month.

The Union is opening in 2020. It is located right on Fletcher and within walking distance from campus. They will also have a stop for the BullRunner as well. These apartments are fully furnished with major appliances included. They will offer 1-4 bedrooms and are pet-friendly.

Our other apartment rentals suggestions.

Another resource is apartmentsforbulls.com, which is a guide to Tampa apartments that meet your lifestyle and budget.

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One of the biggest fears of any new college student is “the roommate”.   Finding the ideal roommate can be stressful but thinking about a few important things can help make it easier.  Whether you will be sharing a room, or have your own room but sharing a suite, living with someone brings new challenges of personal space, respect, and flexibility.

Being an only child, going to college was the first time that I had to share a room with someone.  I was actually excited about it but had to get used to a lot of things. At orientation, I met a girl and we got along great.  We decided to request each other as a roommate so that we didn’t have to get a complete stranger. That was well and good until we really lived day to day with each other.  It wasn’t horrible, but it wasn’t ideal either. And you know what? That was ok. We each had to learn how to communicate and live with others, which actually forced us to mature and grow.  The next year we chose different places to live and I think we both had easier times.

Some students choose to live with their friends from high school.  That’s fine too because you have the comfort of knowing that person and their personality.  But here’s a warning: a lot of friends that live with each other don’t end up staying friends.  That may sound extreme but think about it. Going to college is the chance to reinvent yourself and to put yourself out there.  You will be meeting new people and will probably find that your interests change. My daughter found this to be true and watched friendships change and disintegrate from high school.

Obviously, drama cannot be avoided at all times whether you live with a stranger or a friend.  But some of my closest friends were the ones that I barely knew.

So, how do you find a roommate?  Join the USF Class of 2024 (or the year you will graduate) Facebook page.  Attach good pictures of yourself and add a short description about you. Lots of students find their roommates this way.  Be honest! No one wants to learn that the person you finally meet isn’t at all who they said. Try to avoid the same “I like to go out, but school is my number one priority” line.  Once you start looking at a person’s social media, you will get a good idea of the person that they are.

Other sites that have USF roommate search listings are:

Roomsurf.com, roommates.com, and 42-north.com.

Pay attention to USF housing request dates!  Sign-ups fill up fast and if you are going to request a certain roommate, then you BOTH must have all steps completed at the same time.  The Housing Application steps.  Keep checking back for the semester dates that apply to you.

So, if your roommate is a match made in heaven, then great!  But if it’s not, remember that a year of college goes by super-fast.  Learn from your experiences and you will find great people to live with.

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