Heading off to college is an exciting milestone! Between packing dorm essentials and choosing classes, it’s easy to overlook an important part of the transition — your health. As pediatricians, we want our patients to feel confident managing their well-being as they move into this new chapter.
Here are a few key things to know before you head to campus.
Stay Up to Date on Vaccines
Before starting college, make sure your immunizations are current. Colleges often require:
- Meningococcal Vaccine (especially Bexsero)
- Tdap booster
- MMR and Varicella
- Flu vaccine
- COVID-19 vaccine (if required by the school)
Bring a copy of your vaccine record with you. It’s often needed for dorm registration or travel programs.
Know Your Medical History
Keep a list of:
- Any allergies or chronic conditions
- Current medications (with doses)
- Emergency contacts
- Your health insurance card and pharmacy information
- Save a photo of the front and back of your insurance card on your phone
- Keep the physical card in your wallet
- Know how to log in to your insurance app or portal
Tip: Having your insurance details handy makes it easier if you need to visit an urgent care, fill a prescription, or schedule a telehealth visit.
Plan for Prescriptions and Refills
If you take regular medications (like for ADHD, asthma, anxiety, or allergies), plan ahead for how you’ll get refills while away. Options include:
- Transferring to a local pharmacy near campus
- Using a mail-order pharmacy
- Scheduling telehealth check-ins with your pediatrician. We’re here to help, even if you’re used to having mom or dad book your appointments. Now, feel free to reach out directly to our practice for help or guidance.
Know Where to Go for Care
Find out:
- Where the campus health center is located
- The nearest urgent care or hospital
- How to contact campus counseling services
You’ll save stress if you ever get sick or need help during a late-night emergency.
Take Care of Mental Health
College can be exciting and overwhelming. New routines, academic pressure, and being away from home can all affect mood and stress levels.
A few important steps:
- Check in on your mental health before you go.
If you’ve seen a therapist or psychiatrist in high school, consider keeping appointments (virtually or in person) through the transition or start with a new therapist near campus before classes start.
- Know how to access care on campus
Many colleges offer free or low-cost counseling services
- Recognize early signs of anxiety, depression, or burnout
- Stay connected with family
Schedule regular weekly check-ins (FaceTime or calls).
- Prioritize sleep, exercise, and downtime.
Building support before you need it makes college life healthier and more manageable.
Alcohol and Substance Safety
It’s best to avoid alcohol consumption when under 21 years old; however, college life sometimes brings exposure to alcohol or other substances. Even if you choose not to drink, it’s important to know how to stay safe:
- If you choose to drink, drink with people you know and trust.
- Never leave a drink unattended or accept open drinks from others
- Avoid binge drinking. It can cause blackouts, vomiting, or alcohol poisoning. Stop after 1 or 2 drinks.
- Keep track of your location and your friends’ locations. Apps such as “Find my Friends” or simple check in texts help to ensure safety
- Don’t drive after drinking or get into cars with drivers under the influence
- Call for help if a friend passes out or can’t be woken up. Many campuses have medical amnesty policies to protect students who seek help in emergencies.
- If you choose to drink, eat first, pace yourself, and hydrate.
The goal is to make informed, safe choices, and to look out for friends.
Healthy Habits Matter
Reminders before you go
- Eat regularly and stay hydrated
- Get enough sleep (7-9 hours is recommended for your age)
- Practice safe sex
- Wash hands often, especially during cold/flu season
Small habits make a big difference in staying healthy.
Connect with Your Roommate Early
College life is more enjoyable when you feel comfortable where you live. Reaching out to your roommate before move-in day can help ease first-week nerves and prevent misunderstandings.
- Send a quick text or video chat during the summer
- Discuss basics like who’s bringing what for the room and shared expectations (quiet hours, guests, cleaning)
- Be open-minded. Everyone comes from different backgrounds and routines.
Remember it’s normal not to become best friends, but mutual respect makes dorm life smoother.
College brings independence, and that includes taking charge of your health. With a few simple steps before move-in day, you can start this exciting journey feeling prepared and supported.
