SLS Blog

Starting a new school year at a boarding school is about more than packing your bags, it's about preparing for a new chapter. Whether you're a first-year student or returning for another year, the transition can bring a mix of feelings and questions. 

For many students, boarding school is the first time living away from home. While it can be intimidating at first, it's where lifelong friendships begin, independence grows, and unforgettable memories are made. It's completely normal to feel homesick, overwhelmed, or even uncertain during those first few weeks.

Every student who has walked through our doors has experienced a "first day." They understand what it's like to wonder what dorm life will be like, whether they'll make friends, or if they'll find their place on campus.

The good news is this: you won't be walking through it alone.

This guide will help you prepare for move-in day, from what to pack to how to prepare emotionally, along with advice from students who were once standing exactly where you are today. 

Boarding School Essentials

A little preparation goes a long way. Packing thoughtfully will help you settle into campus life with confidence.

For School

• Folders
• Binders
• Notebooks
• Planner
• Loose leaf paper
• TI-30 calculator
• Pencils, erasers, pencil case, pens, highlighters
• Flash drive
• Colored pencils, scissors, glue, ruler
• Compass & protractor
• Earbuds or headphones
• Notecards
• Backpack
• Water bottle

For Dorm

• Clothing hangers
• Towel, washcloth
• Toiletries: toothbrush & paste, razor, shaving cream, deodorant, nail trimmer, skincare & haircare items
• Laundry basket
• Twin sized bedding: pillow, pillowcase, top sheet, fitted sheet, quilt or comforter
• Shower footwear such as flip flops
• Optional: extra storage containers
• Family photos or a few personal items to make your room feel like home

Clothing (SLS specific) - Please refer to your own student handbook for guidelines.

• School pants
• Belt
• Solid color polo shirts
• Shoes: dress, gym, casual, and sport specific
• Socks, including multiple dark dress socks
• Dress pants or suit pants
• Dress shirt with fold-over collar
• Necktie or bow-tie
• Optional: suit coat, sport coat, vest, sweater, watch
• Casual and sport clothing
• Pajamas
• Seasonal clothing (Can be brought as the seasons change)

Starting Strong

No packing list can fully prepare you for the emotions that come with moving away from home. The first few days might feel exciting one moment and overwhelming the next. You may miss your family, wonder if you'll fit in, or even question whether you're ready for this new experience.

Those feelings are completely normal.

In fact, nearly every boarding school student at some point experiences:

• Homesickness
• Nervousness about meeting new people
• Anxiety about classes
• Missing family routines 
• Feeling unsure about where they belong

The important thing to remember is that everyone else is adjusting too.

Here's a few ways to address common emotional challenges:

• Homesickness - Missing home doesn't mean you've made the wrong decision, it means the people and places you love matter to you. Stay connected with your family, but also give yourself time to invest in your new school community. Limit external stressors by getting enough sleep, eating, and limiting your screen time. As friendships grow and routines develop, campus will begin to feel like a second home. 
• Anxiety - Starting somewhere new naturally brings uncertainty. Instead of trying to have everything figured out, focus on taking one day at a time. Ask questions, introduce yourself to classmates, and remember that your teachers, dorm supervisors, mentors, and classmates are all invested in your success.
• Loss of Familiarity - Adjusting to a new routine takes time. Your schedule, classes, and dorm life may feel unfamiliar at first, but each day will become more comfortable. Lean on the resources around you; your mentors, teachers, dorm supervisors, coaches, and tutors. Everyone's here to help! Above all, give your worries to God through prayer and trust that He is with you every step of the way. Give yourself grace as you adjust. Growth doesn't happen overnight

Advice From Our Students

We asked returning students what advice they would give someone starting at a boarding school. Here's what they said:

• Get involved! Join a sport, learn an instrument, sing in the choir, or participate in campus ministry/ volunteer opportunities. Some of your best memories will come from saying "yes" to new opportunities. So don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. 
• Get to know your fraternity, senior mentor, dorm supervisor, and adult mentor. These will be your guiding resources on campus.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help. The teachers and staff genuinely want to see you succeed.
• Establish a daily routine early! Consistency makes balancing academics, activities, and dorm life much easier.
• Stay active and stay involved. The more engaged you are, the more connected you'll feel.
• Go outside! Whether it's walking around campus with friends or simply taking a break in nature, fresh air has a way of bringing perspective.
• Don't compare your journey to someone else's. Every student's experience is unique, and every path unfolds differently.
• Stay on top of your homework and avoid procrastinating. 
• Appreciate the small moments. The years will go by faster than you think, and often it's the everyday moments that become your favorite memories.
• Be kind and always be yourself! 

Advice For Parents: Supporting Your Child From Home

Sending your child to boarding school is a significant milestone for parents too. While the adjustment can be emotional, it's also an incredible opportunity for your child to grow in maturity, confidence, and independence.

Here's a few ways you can help support them from home: 

• Keep regular, but not constant, communication through emails, calls, texts, Facetime, visits when appropriate, letters, cards, and care packages! Give them some space to become part of campus life. 
• Encourage a positive outlook, especially during the first few weeks of adjustment.
• Allow them to work through small challenges independently. Problem-solving is one of the greatest gifts boarding school provides.
• Celebrate their growing confidence and accomplishments, both big and small.
• Expect some homesickness. It affects everyone differently and at different times. Bottom line, it's okay for them to miss home.
• Give reassurance.
• Create opportunities for honest conversations about how they're feeling.
• Lead with encouragement, patience, compassion, and faith as they continue to grow.
• Encourage independence.

A New Beginning

Starting boarding school isn't just about moving into a dorm room. It's about discovering who you are beyond the familiar routines of home. There will be moments that feel difficult. There will also be moments you'll remember for years; the first friend who becomes family, the teacher who inspires you, the late-night study sessions, the victories on the field, and the traditions that make campus feel like home. 

So pack the essentials.

Bring an open mind.

Give yourself grace.

Remember, every senior, every alumnus, and every member of our school community once stood exactly where you are now, wondering what that first day would be like.

Soon enough, you'll be the one encouraging the next new student as they begin their own journey.

So let the adventure begin! We're ready to welcome you home!

Would you like more information about St. Lawrence Seminary? Check out our website or call us at 920-753-7570.