Cars loaded to the ceiling with bedding, books and kitchen supplies. Parents lugging crates and boxes to dorm rooms as their teens awkwardly meet new roommates and begin decorating the walls. The excitement in the air is palpable as college campuses come to life for the start of a new academic year.

The scene plays out every August all over the country, a rite of passage for thousands of students who opt to leave home, some for the first time, to pursue college degrees. It’s a bittersweet time for parents and their kids, and a welcome one after the pandemic disrupted so much of life over the past couple of years.

Many factors go into a student’s decision to move away from home. Many chose their schools based on what they plan to study, like Olivia Silvestri, who graduated from Palo Verde High and plans to major in environmental studies at the University of Southern California. “I chose USC for its academic offerings and opportunities,” she says. “Although I didn’t choose it solely for its close proximity to home, being only a four-hour drive away is a major plus.”

Dora Chatterjee, who graduated from the Coral Academy of Science, is headed to the California Institute of Technology. “I plan to dual major in computer science and business, economics, management,” she says. “Cal Tech aligns with my future goals of research, and it’s also the nearest, most prestigious institution to my home.”

For other students, a school farther from home can offer opportunities for greater independence and a vastly different lifestyle. Vinati T., who graduated from Clark High School, plans to attend the Illinois Institute of Technology. “I’m looking forward to exploring the new city I will be living in,” he says. “Chicago has a lot to offer, and I am really excited to go out and get a feel of the environment around me.”

With most living away from their parents for the first time, these college-bound students say they will miss the constant support and company, along with familiar comforts of home, including home-cooked meals. But they’re also excited for on-campus amenities.

“I’m looking forward to how accessible things are inside my campus. I didn’t realize how many things are included, like their mental health wellness center, the recreation center and more,” says Georgianna Esmeria, a graduate of Coral Academy of Science who will be studying nursing at Cal State Fullerton. “It’s a lot bigger environment compared to my high school, but I know I’ll be able to adapt to it.”

As for dorm essentials, Silvestri’s list includes a fan, shower caddy, mini vacuum, storage bins and lots of USC merch. Esmeria mentions a kettle for hot water and her plushies, “to keep me company while I’m away from my family.” And the Windy City-bound Vinati is already anticipating the weather, packing winter coats along with keepsakes given to her by close friends over the years.

Despite their excitement of impending college life, these students haven’t forgotten the world remains in a pandemic. Disinfectant wipes and masks are on to-buy lists, with their health and safety and of those around them top of mind.

“I feel confident I will have a safe college experience, given the improving condition of the pandemic,” Silvestri says. “Going away to school rather than doing it virtually has always been extremely important to me, and I will definitely take precautions to ensure I can continue my education in person.”

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