If you've ever walked around an academic building on campus, a coffee shop or the library, chances are you've seen tons of students with stickers on their laptops and tablets. When I first came to college, I was a little confused by it as well. Why would we want everyone to know where we were from and what TV shows and bands we liked? I soon learned it was a was to show off your personality, as well as a conversation starter, to put these stickers on your computer. I got sucked into shopping on Redbubble, which has stickers for pretty much anything imaginable, created by freelance artists. I even started creating stickers for people to buy. So how can you make your laptop show off YOU?
Pictured above: My laptop.
1. Your University
Nothing screams "I'm a college student" like putting a sticker with your college's name or logo on your computer. I actually got a few free ones during freshman orientation, so you may not have to go online to get one for your university.
2. Your state or hometown
As Americans, it seems like we identify much closer to our state or even city than with our country. We're such a large country, and colleges have students from nearly every state, so why not add a sticker to show off where you're from (and potentially make a friend from your hometown)? If you're not American, you could get one that shows what country you're from.
3. Your favorite sports team
That is if you're a sports fan. Whether it's football, basketball, baseball, soccer or hockey, there's bound to be someone out there who has the same favorite team as you. As a soccer fan, I bought three different Manchester United stickers as well as one for my hometown team, the Columbus Crew.
4. Your favorite musician/band
Music is one thing that really brings people together. If you tell someone that you like their favorite band, you're probably going to become best friends. Whether it's pop, country, rap or electronic, there's probably a sticker for your favorite artist.
5. Your favorite TV show/movie.
I have seen so many people with Dunder Mifflin or Michael Scott stickers on their laptops. Seriously.
6. Your pets
Animals are an important part of my life, particularly dogs. I have a beagle sticker on my computer, and I've seen lots of corgis, Golden Retrievers and cats. Why not show off your beloved pet?
7. Something to do with your major
As an International Studies and Spanish major, I have a passion for languages and all things international. I thought I would represent that through my laptop since it's what I do all my studying on. I have a linguistics sticker, and there's plenty to choose from: engineering, political science, education, medicine, and so much more!
8. Where you've traveled
Nothing strikes up a conversation like your recent travels. I have the flag of Spain, the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Kiawah Island in South Carolina and the Eiffel Tower. I actually became friends with a girl in my Spanish class because of my Kiawah sticker.
9. Anything inspirational
Are you Christian? Show that through your favorite Bible verse or a cross. Or, just pick your favorite quote, something about changing the world, or something to do with your family.