With August right around the corner we have a new horde of freshman starting College this fall.
It seems every year they are less and less prepared than the incoming freshman before them. Now, I have been through the rodeo of fall semester numerous times and I wished there was a list or a check sheet to prepare me for being a mini-adult. Most people when they enter college don't really think of what they'll need.
So, as a senior in my final semester I decided to share with you some things that I wish someone told me to bring/have with me in college. Some of them range from simple things to things you probably didn't think that you'd need. Unless you didn't think you needed snacks... you always need to have snacks.
1- A good computer
In college you're going to have to do a lot of work. Writing papers, doing research... watching netflix, ect. You'll have to a personal laptop or a device to function properly. So be sure when you're shopping for college supplies to look at the technology section and maybe talk with a parent or budget yourself to have a decent computer with you.
2- A Large USB or a Hard Drive
This goes hand-in-hand with the computer. You're going to have to have a place to put your papers projects and other things. You might need to either turn in to a professor or save it to work on later. And with the amount of things you'll have to do in college it's very easily to use up your computer memory. Still having a USB thumb drive or a really large hard drive in your backpack is always good.
3- For the guys : A nice Razor
Ok so dudes... it's very easy to fall into having crazy facial hair in college especially freshman year. You have so many classes and you might not pay attention to your personal hygiene. I don't like it admitting it, but I fell into that trap too. Most guys in college do, and we all look like crazy hobos... get a GOOD razor or electric razor and shave at least once or twice a week. I personally recommend the Phillips Norelco shaver (not sponsored)
4- For the Ladies: Self Defense/Pepper Spray
upload.wikimedia.orgNow, I that it sounds scary but ladies no matter where you go protection and feeling safe is always a good thing. In college you may or may not find yourself in a situation that you need to get out of very fast. I know many girls who carry pepper spray key chains on their keys at all times because of this. I also know and have met people who didn't have something to protect themselves and wish that they did have something that would have helped them. So... PROTECT yourself ladies, always have something that makes you feel at ease and can get you out of a situation if you ever find yourself in one.
5- A Water bottle
This one is a staple for me to have, I always have my water bottle on me at all times. You are going to be walking all over campus going to lectures and sitting in them for hours. You can't just get up and find a water fountain in the middle of a lecture, you'll miss something that's probably crucially important. So having a water bottle is good and you'll thank me for it later!
6- A comfortable pair of shoes
pin.itYou are going to be walking around, everywhere! So wearing a cute pair of heels or a cool pair of Converse aren't so great at the end of the day. Make sure you wear shoes that you like and that are comfortable for you.
7- Snacks!
Ok, so you are going to be in lectures probably throughout the whole day you might have a little bit of time to get lunch. But if you don't, having snacks in your backpack or bag is great. I usually have granola bars, chips, or beef jerky in my bag if I know I'm not going to be able to grab lunch or something. ALWAYS have snacks on you though, help another student or share... you might make a good friend from it.
8- Headphones
When you are in lectures or if you're on your way to class you might be listening to music or a podcast, etc. Don't be that person blaring it out for everyone to hear, get yourself a nice pair of earbuds or headphones and enjoy yourself! I person you listen to music while walking on campus every day.
9- A Power Bank
So lets face it, your phone is going to die and there's going to be no outlets for you to plug in your phone. It'll happen... trust me. SO when it does you'll thank me for telling you to pack a Power Bank to plug your phone in for an emergency charge.
10- A Desk Calender
This one is another personal favorite of mine. I always have a desk calendar to put to-do lists, exam dates or turn in dates on. That way you can schedule your time efficiently, and know on what day you are able to relax or what days you need to be in high gear.
11- A Journal
Last but not least keep a journal. College is a crazy time and you might need to let out some stress or even just write down a memory you want to keep. Having a journal is nice to de-stress, let out emotions, or just simply to remember a fun or funny memory. You'll look back and thank yourself for keeping a journal about your college years
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