Another school year is in the books for students all across the nation which only means one thing. Summer! But as fun as that is, making sure you are prepared for next school year is just as important. Especially for incoming freshmen who have never experienced dorm life in the slightest. Some are so excited to just get away from home and ride the waves of freedom, that their judgment becomes clouded and they don't start off their college experience as prepared as they should be. So listed below are just some items that could help any first-time college student survive the reality of dorm life.

1. Shower flip flops!

It will feel weird taking a shower with shoes on after having a completely safe and non-infected shower floor to stand on at home, but think about it. Consider what you do in the shower, and then how many other people also used that same shower that day. Don't forget your shoes.

2. A reusable water bottle

You won't always have a plastic water bottle to just grab and go. But there are plenty of water fountains all over your campus. Grab a cute bottle, and carry it with you everywhere because you will want it later. This also goes for any other cutlery and dishes you might want throughout the year.

3. Pictures of loved ones

Nothing makes you feel more at home than seeing familiar and smiling faces every day. This also goes for decorations. Make sure you're happy with your dorm room decor, it will make the transition a lot easier.

4. An extension chord

If your first dorm was anything like mine, you have very limited outlets. Especially if your fellow roommate takes up a lot of them. Make sure to grab the biggest extension chord because you'll find that you always have something new to plugin.

5. Headphones

Whether you want to listen to some music, study outside or the library, or need to... cancel out some other sounds during the night. Extra headphones are a must-have.

6. Coffeemaker

Starbucks can get expensive and the walk there will eventually get tiring. Invest now and save a lot of time and money later.

7. Alarm clock

We've all been in that position where we forgot to plug in our phones overnight and that was the only source you relied on to wake you up for that 8 a.m. lecture. Assure yourself later with an alarm clock that doesn't live on your phone that can be moody about battery life.

8. Umbrella

My first day of classes at the bright and shining hour of seven in the morning and it was down pouring halfway to my trek across the campus. Just have one always on you, even if it says it won't rain. Just in case.

9. First aid kit

Because the first headache, migraine, splinter, or possible broken anything you get, you will panic and call mom. Just be prepared in advance and get a kit with all possible essentials included.

10. Daily planner

College is not like high school, and a professor will not remind you when you have something due that week. It is up to you to remember every deadline and every upcoming test. So if you will be one of the students that throw away the syllabus after the first day, buy a planner, jot down all the dates, and then do with it what you will.

11. An even variety of clothing

As important as sweatpants, sweaters and flip-flops are, having an emergency dress and nice flats or ironed tie is a good thing too. You never know what will come up and how formal you will have to present yourself.

12. School supplies!

Definitely don't forget the reason why you're there. At least a couple notebooks, spare paper, pens and pencils, and anything else that will help you study, take notes, or just some favorite office supplies.

College is meant to be a fun and transitional experience. It is the first time for many that they will be living independently and that can sometimes override the excitement with fear. Just take deep breaths, plan ahead, and stay focused. College is what you make of it, so make sure it's everything you want and need it to be.