- Joined
- Jan 6, 2011
- Messages
- 1,580
I am starting a thread for the parents of SMC plebes who are wondering what items they should bring with them on their next campus visit. Here's my initial list (not in order of importance). Hopefully others -- especially current SMC cadets -- will supplement this list:
1. Double-stick tape (used to secure items to the bottom of the inspection toiletry drawer).
2. Sleeping bag or blanket. Contrary to popular belief, cadets sleep on top of their beds, not in them! They do this, so they don't have to make their beds in the morning. Check with your DS/DD to see if they want a blanket or comfy sleeping bag, as it will depend on what was issued/permissible.
3. Nice firm pillow (the issued ones are usually crappy).
4. Quality undergarments and socks. T-Shirts should have a tight collar so the DS/DD doesn't have to wear the t-shirt on backwards in order to look sharp (issued items are not the greatest quality).
5. Quality shoe shining brush and a bottle of "Insta-Shine" for emergencies.
6. New low quarter black shoes/tan combat boots? (they likely took a beating, but now that the academic year started, DS/DD might need an inspection pair).
7. Can of Spray Starch (and an empty spray bottle for water, even if iron has spray capability). Also, if permitted, you might bring along a regular ironing board (not those small ones that you place on the desk), because it makes ironing so much easier (only need one per room, though).
8. Extra brass belt buckle (Stay-brite brass is likely not permitted until next year).
9. Clock radio and/or coffee pot (check to be sure privileges for these have been granted). Usually what happens is that the roommates collaborate on who is going to bring what for the room. Be sure to check with DS/DD before making any purchase (don't need two coffee pots in the room).
10. Replenish first aid kit/toiletry supplies? For DDs, quality makeup?
11. iTunes gift card (convince a relative who is unable to attend to pick that one up!).
12. Boodle (if permitted). Be sure to purchase extra boodle for your DS/DD's fellow platoon members and especially the cadre!
13. Civilian clothes like jeans may not be permitted, but you might want to ask your cadet. Also, consider sweat pants or something they can wear in their room while studying.
14. Electronic photo frame for desk (kind that displays electronic photos).
15. Lot's of love, pride, and joy!!
1. Double-stick tape (used to secure items to the bottom of the inspection toiletry drawer).
2. Sleeping bag or blanket. Contrary to popular belief, cadets sleep on top of their beds, not in them! They do this, so they don't have to make their beds in the morning. Check with your DS/DD to see if they want a blanket or comfy sleeping bag, as it will depend on what was issued/permissible.
3. Nice firm pillow (the issued ones are usually crappy).
4. Quality undergarments and socks. T-Shirts should have a tight collar so the DS/DD doesn't have to wear the t-shirt on backwards in order to look sharp (issued items are not the greatest quality).
5. Quality shoe shining brush and a bottle of "Insta-Shine" for emergencies.
6. New low quarter black shoes/tan combat boots? (they likely took a beating, but now that the academic year started, DS/DD might need an inspection pair).
7. Can of Spray Starch (and an empty spray bottle for water, even if iron has spray capability). Also, if permitted, you might bring along a regular ironing board (not those small ones that you place on the desk), because it makes ironing so much easier (only need one per room, though).
8. Extra brass belt buckle (Stay-brite brass is likely not permitted until next year).
9. Clock radio and/or coffee pot (check to be sure privileges for these have been granted). Usually what happens is that the roommates collaborate on who is going to bring what for the room. Be sure to check with DS/DD before making any purchase (don't need two coffee pots in the room).
10. Replenish first aid kit/toiletry supplies? For DDs, quality makeup?
11. iTunes gift card (convince a relative who is unable to attend to pick that one up!).
12. Boodle (if permitted). Be sure to purchase extra boodle for your DS/DD's fellow platoon members and especially the cadre!
13. Civilian clothes like jeans may not be permitted, but you might want to ask your cadet. Also, consider sweat pants or something they can wear in their room while studying.
14. Electronic photo frame for desk (kind that displays electronic photos).
15. Lot's of love, pride, and joy!!
Last edited:
