“College 101: The Ultimate Freshman Year Essentials Checklist for Student Success”
Our Opinion
So you’ve finally made it to college—congrats! Whether you’re a bright-eyed freshman or a seasoned upperclassman, there are some college essentials that every student should have in their arsenal. As the staff of the parent game, we’ve seen our fair share of college students come and go, and we’re here to share our top picks for what to bring to college to make your student life a breeze.
First up, we have the classic must-haves: a sturdy backpack, notebooks, pens, and textbooks. But why settle for a plain old backpack when you can stand out from the crowd with a trendy, durable option that will last you throughout your four years (or maybe even five…or six…no judgment here). And don’t forget to stock up on plenty of notebooks and pens—there’s nothing worse than reaching for a pen during a lecture only to find that your last one ran out of ink.
Next on the list, we have the all-important laptop. Gone are the days of lugging around heavy textbooks and notebooks—everything you need for class can now be found on your handy dandy laptop. Not only is a laptop essential for taking notes and completing assignments, but it’s also great for catching up on your favorite Netflix shows during those late-night study sessions. Plus, you’ll definitely need it for all those Zoom meetings and online classes (thanks, COVID).
Now, let’s talk about storage solutions. College dorm rooms are notorious for being small and cramped, so it’s important to maximize your space with some clever storage solutions. Invest in some under-the-bed storage bins to store extra clothes, shoes, and other belongings that won’t fit in your closet. And don’t forget about a desk organizer to keep all your school supplies in order—because let’s be real, a cluttered desk equals a cluttered mind.
Lastly, we have the fun stuff. Stock up on snacks to keep you fueled during late-night study sessions (we recommend a healthy mix of fruits, nuts, and maybe a bag of chips or two for those inevitable cravings). And don’t forget about some fun decor to make your dorm room feel like home—think string lights, cozy throw blankets, and maybe even a few plants to add some life to your space.
So there you have it, our top picks for college essentials that every student should have. Whether you’re a freshman just starting out or a seasoned pro navigating your way through your final year, these essentials will help make your student life a little easier and a lot more fun. And hey, if all else fails, just remember: parents are just a phone call away. Good luck out there, college students—you got this!
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