How to Cope With Moving to College

Leaving for college is a major milestone for students stepping into independence and parents adjusting to a quieter home. It’s exciting, emotional, and a little overwhelming. At Joshua’s Moving & Packing, we’ve helped countless families with this significant transition. Whether you’re headed across California or just across the Bay Area, our student moving services can take one thing off your plate so you can concentrate on coping with your new normal.

For Students: 4 Ways to Ease the Transition into College

1. Make your space feel familiar.

Pack a few small comforts from home—a favorite blanket, a photo of family and friends, or your go-to mug. Even if you’re sharing a room, a few key items and decorations can help your new space feel less foreign.

Need help figuring out what to bring? Check out our Ultimate Bay Area College Moving Checklist!

2. Don’t stress about instant connections.

Friendships and routines take time. Say yes to new experiences, but give yourself grace if things feel awkward at first. Need help finding friends? Check out student-run clubs or local classes that align with your interests.

3. Build healthy habits early.

Set a routine that includes eating well, getting enough sleep, and going to class. Prepping easy meals, scheduling study sessions, and setting clear bedtimes are small things that make a big impact on your mental health.

4. Stay in touch, but give yourself room to grow.

Text home when you need to, but try not to rely on it. College is about becoming your own person.
We’ve helped students move into dorms across Palo Alto and beyond, and starting fresh is part of the journey.

For Parents: 3 Tips for Letting Go of Your College-Aged Child 

1. Let yourself feel it.

It’s okay to be emotional. Pride and sadness often show up together during this transition. If you need help processing, reach out for professional help or talk to parents of your child’s friends—they’re sure to be going through the same experience.

2. Avoid daily check-ins.

Resist the urge to micromanage. Giving your child space builds their confidence and resilience. If your kid is okay with it, stick to weekly check-ins 

3. Be available, not present.

Your role is shifting, but you’re still a safety net. Keep yourself open for phone calls, texts, and requests for help. You may be moving toward the next phase of your life, but your child will still need your support as they transition to adulthood. 

How Joshua’s Moving Makes College Moves Easier

Moving can be physically and emotionally draining, especially during a big life transition like starting college. Joshua’s Moving & Packing takes the heavy lifting off your plate. Our team handles careful packing, safe transport, and efficient unloading so students and parents can focus on adjusting to their new routines. With our expert team managing the move, you can settle in at your own pace, unpack comfortably, and start campus life with less stress and more confidence.

Send Them Off With Confidence—Contact Joshua’s Today

That first night might feel tough, but it gets easier. After all, you’ve both been preparing for this. Letting go starts with a smooth move. For more tips on moving in the Bay Area, explore our blog.

Need help getting there? Contact Joshua’s Moving & Packing for a free, no-obligation estimate. We’ll manage the details so you can be there for the big moments.