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The Many Moods of Move-In

by Betsy Chapman

Move-In Day is a milestone filled with high energy and deep emotions. As you unpack boxes and navigate the campus, expect a wide range of feelings from both your student and yourself.

To maintain a sense of calm amid the physical and emotional heavy lifting, keep these insights in mind:

  • Anticipate emotional shifts: Your student might feel anxious, excited, or protective of their autonomy. This stress can manifest as temporary clinginess or short-temperedness. Remember that they are doing their best to process a massive life change.

  • Affirm their independence: Allow your student to take the lead on arranging their room and establishing their new identity. Avoid highlighting or judging differences from their high school persona.

  • Grant everyone grace and space: Move-in can feel hectic. If tension arises, take a ten-minute walk, grab a cold drink, or rest in the hall lounge to reset.

  • Leave a hidden message: Before you say goodbye, hide a small note of encouragement under their pillow or in a drawer. Your written words of love and trust will be deeply treasured in the quiet days ahead.

Whether there are tears, quiet moments, or bursts of nervous energy, please know that every single emotion you – and your students! – feel at Move-In is completely normal. Take a deep breath and trust that you have prepared them beautifully for this moment.

Contact

To contact the Office of Family Engagement or Family Communications, please visit our contact page.

For mental health assistance: 336-758-CARE (2273) is a service that ensures someone will always be available (i.e., 24/7 M-F, weekends and university holidays) to provide caring and thoughtful consultation services for Wake Forest students in need of mental health assistance or support. You can also visit we.wfu.edu for resources.