The transition to adulthood, especially from home to the college campus, can present with multiple challenges. Changes in habits and routines, navigation of unfamiliar environments, living away from primary supports, and experiencing the challenges and expectations in the higher education classroom are only a few novel undertakings that accompany increased independence. One often overlooked aspect of transition is the consideration of how each person regulates themselves neurologically. This is called a sensory diet.

The aim of this project is to create a program to integrate sensory considerations with the student packing list. Most people are unaware of the impact that change has on their sensory system. If the sensory system becomes overloaded or if it is under-stimulated, it may cause the student to have some difficulty with self-regulation at a level that is needed for full independence and success. Recognizing that many of the strategies used for self-regulation may be prompted by personal self-reflection could result in inclusion of specific (and sometimes non-intuitive) items when packing for college.