When it comes to choosing the necessities for your backpack, everyone is different! It’s true, the things we carry around can be personal. However, there are some things that everyone needs before their first college lecture. Make sure you are equipped with these college basics:
1. Laptop
Depending on your major and the classes you are taking, you may be required to use your laptop during class to take notes, turn in online quizzes, or participate in group work. Having your laptop may be convenient between classes when you want to finish a quick homework assignment or get some work done. Keep in mind that carrying your laptop with you requires space and protection.
2. Notebook
Some professors may prohibit laptops for note-taking, so it’s important to also have an old fashioned notebook handy. Though it’s faster to type notes, physically writing helps your mind to retain the information you are trying to learn.
3. Textbooks
Usually, professors will specify on the syllabus whether or not it’s required to bring your books to class. To be extra prepared on the first day, bring them in case your professor dives straight into teaching.
4. Planner/Digital Calendar
When your professor starts talking about homework assignments/review sessions/exam dates, you can add notes to your planner or digital calendar. This will keep you organized and aware of upcoming deadlines. This also gives you a space to look at your schedule in its entirety rather than having to drag out the syllabus/course calendar for each individual class.
5. Pens, pencils, highlighters
Carry these writing utensils in your backpack, so you’re always prepared to take notes. How else are you going to write everything down? Don’t be that person that constantly needs to borrow a writing utensil from their neighbor. ‘Nuff said.
6. Blue Books/Scantrons
Blue books are used during exams that involve in-class essays or short answer questions. Scantrons are used for multiple choice quizzes or exams. Keep a few in your backpack so that you don’t have to worry about forgetting them on exam day.
7. Water Bottle
Believe it or not, drinking water is crucial to waking up your brain and maintaining concentration. Rather than purchasing plastic water bottles every day, you can bring your own reusable water bottle in your backpack to save money (and the environment).
8. Snacks
It’s pretty difficult to pay attention in class when your stomach is grumbling the whole time. Be sure to carry snacks with you to keep you energized throughout the day. Check out these healthy snacks to fuel your studies.
9. Keys
If you forget your keys, you may find yourself stranded outside your room waiting for your roommate to come back and let you in…classic freshman mistake. This may not be a big deal, but some dorms may charge you a small fee every time maintenance has to come and let you back into your room. Keep your keys on your person or in your backpack so you won’t have to deal with the hassle.
10. Clicker
Keep your clicker in your bag permanently for the rest of your college life. Many lectures will use clicker questions as a way for taking attendance, giving participation points, and extra credit points. It’s a total bummer when you forget your clicker and miss out on points even though you were there the whole time.
11. Chargers/Earphones
For those awkward breaks that are too short to return to your dorm but not long enough to go to the library, bring headphones to create a study space no matter where you are waiting for your next class. Also, be sure to bring chargers for all your electronics (especially if most of your classes require laptops). Your professors expect you to show up with a fully charged computer that will last the class and outlets can be hard to access or come by in many classrooms.
12. Small umbrella
Though this is not a backpack essential in all places, for some, a travel size umbrella can be a life saver. For many climates, unexpected rain showers are common. Having an umbrella handy can offer relief when you look out the window and realize it’s pouring.
13. Note cards
Carrying around note cards may make it easier to do a bit of studying every day. They are small and light, making them the perfect study tool on the go. Reviewing on your walk from class to class is a prime way to remain productive.
14. Wallet
Whether it be cash, credit, or debit, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of money in case of an emergency. If you are commuting, you should definitely have your driver’s license on you. Student IDs are also necessary to carry around on campus. Often times you need them for meals at the dining hall or even gaining access to your dorm or library.
15. Self-Care Products
Though these things aren’t necessary for everyone, self-care products are important to consider. Here’s a few that may make your life easier and more comfortable: pain medication, tissues, bandaids, inhaler, breath mints, deodorant, dental floss, stain remover, sunglasses, and feminine hygiene products.
If you are living on a budget, there are ways to get these things for cheap or even for free! You can obtain scantrons and blue books at the bookstore or SGA. (If you have any trouble finding these things for free, do not hesitate to ask your peers or your professor for help). Use your student discount to buy your laptop, and go to on-campus events for free water bottles, pens, pencils, and highlighters. When it comes to textbooks, you can save money by renting, buying used copies, downloading e-books in lieu of the real thing, and checking the library to see if they have a copy. No matter what you choose to carry with you, you will find the right materials that fit your budget and your schedule.