Packing light is convenient, but you never want to skip bringing the necessities.1. SunscreenNever ever skip out on bringing sunscreen, even if you’re not traveling somewhere tropical. No matter what your skin tone is, you need sunscreen if you will be spending most of your time in the sun. Looking like a lobster is not attractive. I’ve seen a fair share of people looking like lobsters. You can’t touch them or else they’ll scream from pain, and you definitely don’t want to take a picture with them. It’s an eyesore. So bring sunscreen and your skin, your camera, and your friends will thank you.2. Aloe Vera
Did you ignore the first thing on my list already? Well, for those who like to brave the sun and want to absorb all spectrums of light, I suggest bringing aloe. Looking and feeling like a burn victim is never fun. Trust me on this one. Aloe is necessary to help relieve your skin from sunburn.
3. ProtectionYou will have fun on spring break. Maybe you’ll have a lot more fun than others. Wrap it before you tap it.
4. KooziesIf I teach you anything, it must be to never travel without a koozie. You probably have an entire drawer full of them. You want to keep your drink as cold as possible for as long as possible. Stick a couple koozies in your bag. They’re small and nifty.
5. Pain KillersA bottle of aspirin is necessary to get rid of those achy muscles or hangovers. No one wants to spend his or her spring break hung over, and no one wants to deal with someone who is hung over. Save yourself the trouble and take a bottle with you.
6. ChapstickYou can’t kiss someone with chapped lips. You probably wouldn’t care about it if you were having a drunken makeout, but the feeling of chapped lips against someone else’s is gross. I’m cringing right now thinking about it.
7. Waterproof PouchDepending on where you go, a waterproof pouch is a good idea to bring. It keeps your things together and will protect them from water. Most people will be around a body of water, and they will have their phone with them. It’s better to be safe than sorry. My old iPhones suffered from water damage. Do not let it happen to you. Sporting goods stores will usually carry waterproof cases or pouches.
8. SunglassesThe sun is really bright. Protect your eyes.
9. Something NeonNeon screams party. It’s also really bright. If your friend loses you, then they can find you with your neon accessory. I just hope that you are not lost in the crowd for too long.
10. Waterproof Band-AidsI cannot count the amount of times I have cut my feet on shards of glass or crushed beer cans on the beach. Getting sand into your wounds is not a fun experience for anybody. Waterproof Band-Aids will be your best friend if you ever run into this situation.
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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Luckily, many colleges offer a number of ways to take part in campus and community life, without forcing you to dedicate all of your time to these organizations. Here are a few ideas!
1. Look into Housing and Dining.
Many first-year students start off college life in residence halls, and the Housing & Dining network throughout campus often provides multiple opportunities for students throughout the year. Many buildings have student community councils that work to create policies and events that make the dorms a more welcoming home for residents. Becoming a community assistant (or the students who work the desks at the front of many halls) is another easy way to have a consistent, well-paying job only minutes away from your room.
If you really enjoyed your housing experience, consider applying to be an RLA, or, if the school offers it, help to teach the first-year community. You'll get the chance to help support new and returning students over the year, and many of these positions also cover major costs like board and meal plans.
2. Pay attention to campus postings.
This advice is more obvious, but it still gets overlooked a fair amount. Even on a busy day, taking the time to stop around campus and look at the flyers advertising clubs and events can draw your attention to something that you never would've noticed otherwise. Students on many campuses also chalk the sidewalk to catch students' attention while they walk to class. Just make sure that the event you're interested in hasn't taken place already!
3. Find common interest groups.
One way to find friends and get involved is to focus on what you're passionate about. Have you always loved to sing? Do you enjoy playing video games? Is photography your favorite past-time? Have you always wanted to join Greek life? Whatever you love devoting your time to, chances are there are organizations around school who are focused on the same thing. Check the student life section of your university's website, or stop by a student organization fair at the beginning of the semester.
4. Join an intramural sports team.
If you're the athletic type, you've probably heard of intramural sports. Often offered through the Rec Center or the residence halls, most colleges often offer various indoor and outdoor sports to take part in throughout the year. Personal favorite? Mini golf.
5. Work on a cause that you care about.
Whether you're passionate about a political group, a social cause, or a religion, working with people who value beliefs similar to yours can be an easy way to meet people, get a better sense of your own identity, and promote causes that are important to you. Look into getting involved with College Democrats, Republicans, or whatever party that you belong to. Find a club that supports social issues, from women's rights to protecting the environment. If you're religious, look into student organizations based on your faith.
6. Join a club related to your major.
Even if you're not entirely sure what you want to do after school, finding a club or organization related to your field of studies can benefit you long after you leave the classroom. From career-related workshops to conferences to professional connections, these groups have a lot to boast.
7. Get an on-campus job.
If you have the time, need to work, or want to save a few extra dollars, finding a job on or near campus is a time-effective way to build up your bank account and gain work experience. Check in your residence hall (see #1), at local businesses and offices, or make an appointment with your school's career center.
8. Volunteer.
When you're caught up in school life, it can be hard to think about the bigger picture. Volunteering your time to people (or animals/an environment) in need puts things in perspective and allows you to feel good while making a positive difference. Check if your college town has a volunteer page, or look up local organizations requesting help.
Best of luck this year! Get out, and get busy.
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