August always signals the end of summer and the time for back-to-school shopping for kids across the nation. However, for the millions of college students, back-to-school shopping isn’t just about the newest sneakers and the coolest threads. For college students, school is life. They live at school, they work at school, and of course, they learn at school. As a college grad, a former freshman orientation leader, and a professor, let me guide you on the top ten college back-to-school essentials.
10. Foul Weather Footwear – One of the most forgotten items among college freshman is footwear for rain and snow. Remember, you are going to have to walk to class come rain or come shine. Also, you don’t want to be that freshman who has to sit through class in wet smelly sneakers, or the one sitting in the middle of the sidewalk because you fell on the ice (true story).
9. 3-Ring Binders – While you might not use them for class, these will come in handy in a million different ways. If you get involved in some clubs or activities, keep handouts and meeting notes in these. If the school gives you a welcome folder, it will be easier to look through in a three-ring binder. Of course, they come in handy in class too, as you will be getting notes, articles, and readings that you’re expected to keep throughout the semester.
8. Book bag / Sturdy Tote – Once things get underway and you have to juggle studying with the SGA meeting and musical practice, you begin living out of your backpack. Be sure it will hold all you need for each day and won’t fail you on that 20-minute walk across campus to the Communications Center.
7. Footlocker / Trunk / Under-Bed Storage – Even the nicest residence halls don’t come with all the storage space you’ll need to stay organized. Invest in some rolling plastic containers that can either be stowed under the bed with out-of-season clothes or food, or act as a makeshift bedside table to hold magazines, toiletries, and study supplies.
6. Twin Extra-Long Sheets – It is well known that for dorm living, the only way to go is with Twin Extra-Long sheets. Jersey cotton is a way to make those dorm beds a little more bearable, as is a comfy mattress pad. Be sure to double check the size of the bed, as some colleges are upgrading to full beds to entice students
5. Shower Caddy – Whether you share a bathroom with one other student or the entire hall, a shower caddy is a great idea. It allows you to easily cart your things from the bathroom to the bedroom, as well as keep your roommate from using your new shampoo. Be sure to get one with holes in the sides so water doesn’t sit inside and mold.
4. Lamp – Many residence halls have overhead lamps or desk lamps built into the furniture, but sometimes you just need a reading lamp. Places such as Bed Bath & Beyond sell lamps that will clip to a shelf or bed frame so you can stay up late reading philosophy, while your roommate can get shut-eye for her 8 A.M. class.
3. External Hard Drive, or USB drive – There is nothing worse than having your computer crash in college. You have to tell your professor what happened, because it always happens the minute before a huge paper is due. Back everything up as often as possible to save yourself unnecessary stress and unwanted aggravation.
2. Umbrella – Like with the foul weather footgear, you have to go to class no matter what the weather is, so keep you and your notes nice and dry with an umbrella. Target has small ones that fit inside a book bag or purse that last for years.
1. Planner – While you may have juggled activities, schoolwork, and a social life in high school, mom and dad aren’t around to keep you organized any more. Purchase a planner now and start filling it with dates as soon as you get your syllabus. Mead and Moleskine make excellent planners that will help keep your life a little less stressful through organization.
Finally, college is a time to find out who you are and what you are good at. Take advantage of every opportunity and lesson, because they will be some of the most lasting ideas for the rest of your life.
Sources
“Back to College: Seasonal,” Target.
“We Love College!,” Bed Bath & Beyond.
