VMI packing list/Post View

bjkuds

bjkuds

5-Year Member
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Oct 25, 2010
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:thumb: DS got his notification of his class choice for STP. Eng Comp was his #1 pick so that worked out well. :thumb: Also his bill showed up on Post View with in state tuition cost instead of OOS. And they haven't posted any financial aid yet. I find it odd. The little demon inside me wants to pay it off quick before anyone notices:redface: But I will call and check into it if I don't see a change in a week or two. DH is scoping out a badly needed new lawn tractor with the difference if it holds true. I'm telling him to not get attached to the idea, but it's probably too late for that, I think he's hooked. Current one got rolled down a bank 2 years ago and caught fire:yllol: and it still runs, sort of:biggrin:

Since graduation is upon us and DS will be receiving cash from Aunts, Uncles, Grandma's etc; didn't have the heart to tell people he needs 34 pair of socks as a graduation gift according to the packing list. Some things on the list are minimum numbers. And since DS is planning on using his graduation money on school supplies what things should he stick to the minimum on and what things should he bring extra of if anything? I know their space is limited but if there is something that those of you that have been through this before wish you had more of above the minimums on the packing list I'd appreciate the heads up. Thank you
 
Congrats! I was hoping those out of state cadets got a break to in state rates for STP - I would not think it a mistake, but would also not expect any other aid for STP - if you are talking about financial aid for the academic year - I know that my son's (current cadet) was only posted couple of weeks ago - dont know how they work it - current cadets vs rats, and if they wait to see who all really accepts etc.
As for the lists - remember RATS will NOT have much opportunity to shop anywhere outside of post certainly not the first semester - you will see whenever you vist - WAL MART gets HUGE play - store filled with cadets and parents on any saturday or sunday - if you are attending new market, any football games, homecoming, paretns weekend etc- beside sleeping in your hotel room, making a trip to walmart will be on your cadet's list - gives them a chance to stock up on supplies and fill their food box.
As for supplies - I believe the lsit is created so that the cadet has enough sheets, towels, underwear to accomdate the laundry bags going out and waiting to pick up - I know that there are a FEW washing machines and dryers - probably NOT many - believe coin operated - my son have never used, but I have met several cadets (mostly girls) that have mentioned using them.
So keeping in mind the amount of items are geared to getting thru 1 week - I can tell you that my son didnt use all the sheets or even the towels - this year when he returned still have severel sheets that have NEVER been used, some soo used I have had to throw out. I was told to not be surprised if I had to add to socks etc during the year - they get lsot in the laundry cycle, my son says he ties his bags closed and didnt lose anything. So that has not happened so far for me. Last summer and again this month- when everything came home, as we sorted and I washed - some items are wornout and I toss and then replace before he returns.
MY experience would say, one could cut the number of sheets to 3-4, but the underwear and socks - espically for august and early fall - they will be changing and the weather is HOT - so they probably need all of those numbers.
If you are asking about supplies - small fans are needed for heat those first months, alarm clocks, calculator, computer etc. all needed. As for classroom supplies- I did send a collection, not nearly enough, was worried, but my son has done fine using the bookstore - they have ample supply even calculators, cables etc for computers, as well as paper, spirals, etc.
Hope this helps - after two years, can say that my son still has 1/2-2/3 of sheets, most of towels and washcloths, but socks and tee shirts take a hit - dont need more, just be prepared to replace ( about 1/3) at beginning of each year.
Please ask if I missed something - am happy to share our experience - but some of this would be individual habits and preferences. larrys mom
 
Summer Transition Program - where a RAT comes to take 1 class, we chose my son's least fav - one that would require most time - english -to get out of the way before august - thereby giving the RAT a light load during that first semester -
STP gives a RAT a chance to live in barracks, get one class out fo the way, get to know some classmates (historically about 50% of incomnig class attends STP) My son's year, at STP they also received their boots and maybe shoes, and were encouraged to wear them to break them in.
STP has its own dress code - NOT really a RAT yet, so no corp stuff inflicted upon you yet - nice chance to get to know your way around, become familiar with language, do PT, helps keep you in shape or get you into shape -
YOUR roommates for STP will not be your roommates at matriculation - you will be assigned a room - the remaining 3 years you can choose who you room with.
larrys mom
 
larry2013 said:
Congrats! I was hoping those out of state cadets got a break to in state rates for STP - I would not think it a mistake.




Guess what. It was. They accidentally charged in state tuition instead of OOS on our bill. We will be seeing a corrected bill shortly. I guess decisions on FA aren't out yet so I will wait until that comes out before I write the BIG check:biggrin: Thanks for your help :thumb:
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SOO sorry - I remember our STP year, saw that IF you were out of state, one could apply for FA so I just assumed they gave some break for that. Its a real shame I realize how expensive it is and just keeps getting.
My son only got his FA stuff recently, I cant remember now but was around the end of academic year - think i read somewhere that they wait to give all who decide to attent the same shot - good luck, larrys mom
 
bjkuds said:
:thumb: DS got his notification of his class choice for STP. Eng Comp was his #1 pick so that worked out well. :thumb: Also his bill showed up on Post View with in state tuition cost instead of OOS. And they haven't posted any financial aid yet. I find it odd. The little demon inside me wants to pay it off quick before anyone notices:redface: But I will call and check into it if I don't see a change in a week or two. DH is scoping out a badly needed new lawn tractor with the difference if it holds true. I'm telling him to not get attached to the idea, but it's probably too late for that, I think he's hooked. Current one got rolled down a bank 2 years ago and caught fire:yllol: and it still runs, sort of:biggrin:

Since graduation is upon us and DS will be receiving cash from Aunts, Uncles, Grandma's etc; didn't have the heart to tell people he needs 34 pair of socks as a graduation gift according to the packing list. Some things on the list are minimum numbers. And since DS is planning on using his graduation money on school supplies what things should he stick to the minimum on and what things should he bring extra of if anything? I know their space is limited but if there is something that those of you that have been through this before wish you had more of above the minimums on the packing list I'd appreciate the heads up. Thank you
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My DS is taking the English class as well:biggrin:
 
Is there anything not on the packing list that we should bring either to STP or in the fall? Such as saddle soap, cleaning supplies, brasso, etc?
 
Kate said:
Is there anything not on the packing list that we should bring either to STP or in the fall? Such as saddle soap, cleaning supplies, brasso, etc?
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Rolls of quarters and laundry supplies for STP...DS bought a swim suit for STP. I guess you can bring whatever you like for bedding during STP rather than flat sheets. Also basic first aid stuff..Tylenol...Band Aids etc. I remember seeing Brasso and Kiwi shoe polish etc on Post in the store. I suppose since they issue boots during STP it might not hurt to work on them early, but I'm guessing there too...they may want everyone to have an equal start with everything on Matriculation Day.

Its getting close. DS is getting really excited. So are we:thumb:
 
bjkuds said:
they may want everyone to have an equal start with everything on Matriculation Day.
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That's the best way to put it.

Some things I would bring/do that I believe are essential or will make your life easier:

Fan - (July/August heat in Virginia is no joke.)
Internet cables (no wifi in barracks, unless you or a roommate bring a router)
Power Strip - there are not enough outlets for everyone
Mole Skin - (for anyone with feet unaccustomed to boots)
Bathing Suit - (or just use GD shorts)
Basic/Personal Medications - (the PX carries most of the common pharmaceuticals)
Talk to your STP counselors and Faculty if you have any questions before asking a Cadet
Study for your classes (your main reason for being there is to start off your collegiate academic career successfully. Do not squander that chance)
Get in shape (when you're not studying, get better physically)
Get to you know your soon to be BRs (they will become your best friends/family not only while at VMI, but afterwards as well)


Things I wouldn't bring/do:

Shoe Polish/Brasso/any uniform cleaning items
Guitars/musical instruments (It brings attention to yourself and eventually someone will tell you to put it away)
Spend time with you soon to be Co-Matriculants, not upperclassmen (every year STP students end up at VMI cadet parties. This is not the way you want to start off your cadetship)

See you all at STP.
 
Long Grey Line gave you some excellent advice on stuff to bring. Bring that fan - he's not kidding about the heat in the barracks. And USE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO GET AHEAD with a good grade in the course you are taking and strengthen your PT if necessary. This is an excellent No stress opportunity for you to start getting your head in the game without folks trying to rip it off!:rolleyes: Finally, get out into Lexington , enjoy what is a quaint little place set in some really nice countryside. It's a nice place that as a cadet you won't get the chance to appreciate as much as it deserves.
Good luck with the start of STP on July 5th and have a good 4th of July weekend:thumb:

LongGreyLine Hopeful said:
That's the best way to put it.

Some things I would bring/do that I believe are essential or will make your life easier:

Fan - (July/August heat in Virginia is no joke.)
Internet cables (no wifi in barracks, unless you or a roommate bring a router)
Power Strip - there are not enough outlets for everyone
Mole Skin - (for anyone with feet unaccustomed to boots)
Bathing Suit - (or just use GD shorts)
Basic/Personal Medications - (the PX carries most of the common pharmaceuticals)
Talk to your STP counselors and Faculty if you have any questions before asking a Cadet
Study for your classes (your main reason for being there is to start off your collegiate academic career successfully. Do not squander that chance)
Get in shape (when you're not studying, get better physically)
Get to you know your soon to be BRs (they will become your best friends/family not only while at VMI, but afterwards as well)


Things I wouldn't bring/do:

Shoe Polish/Brasso/any uniform cleaning items
Guitars/musical instruments (It brings attention to yourself and eventually someone will tell you to put it away)
Spend time with you soon to be Co-Matriculants, not upperclassmen (every year STP students end up at VMI cadet parties. This is not the way you want to start off your cadetship)

See you all at STP.
Click to expand...
 
I echo Bruno's well wishes! ENJOY STP - it really will be a a great opportunity to meet and explore before the fun begins in august!!!!
ENJOY this weekend - the journey is about to begin!
Safe travels larry's mom
 
DS is all packed up...Plastic trunk, large suitcase and Dad's circa 1980 sea bag all stuffed. As we're stuffing it in we realized he is taking a lot more to STP than what is planned for Matriculation. I can't imagine the car had he gone to a college where you fill a regular dorm room. Going to miss him a lot:frown: Last to leave the nest. DH is making the trip on Monday morning with him without me. They are looking forward to the 4th festivities etc.. It looks like there is plenty to do for fun. I'm wishing I could go but I think Dad is really looking forward to an entire day with the boy to himself. My vacation time is limited so I have my vacation planned for a week before matriculation and Christmas break, parents weekend etc. Funny how they move out and we are still planning our lives around them:smile: I think STP is just as valuable for me as it is for DS because of adjusting to life without him. I can at least stay in touch some during STP:smile: rather than going childless "cold turkey". Admittedly I would feel much worse if he wasn't able to go for his dreams.
 
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