subject: What You Need To Bring To College [print this page] You took your schoolwork seriously, overcame the ACT or SAT, and got into several colleges and universities. Pretty soon your college life will begin.
Although you can't wait to get on campus, you probably have dozens of unanswered questions. Among the most common are, what you'll need once you move on campus.
Here are some suggestions for things college students can't be without.
1. All college students need a laptop. Make sure you get one with a big enough screen, but be certain it's not too heavy as you may be carrying it fairly good distances. And, of course, look for a computer with memory adequate to meet your needs.
2. Purchase at least two jump drives. Back up everything on your every day drive on the second drive, and keep your second drive in a drawer where it will not be lost or damaged. An even better, but more expensive, solution is to purchase an external drive on which to save everything you do.
3. Buy an inexpensive printer and split the cost with your roommate. Although a printer is not an absolute necessity, it will make life far easier for you.
4. Slippers and clogs will come in handy, especially if you will be sharing showers with large numbers of people.
5. No college student can be without a good study lamp. Choose one carefully as overhead lighting in college dorms is notoriously poor.
6. Get good bedding. Be sure it's not "itchy".
7. My bet is that a wastebasket is already on your list, but have you thought about garbage bags? They'll make your room more sanitary and the air in it fresher. They'll also extend the life of your wastebasket.
8. You will need at least three towels...the thirstier the better. And a sponge lasts longer, dries faster, and is easier to keep clean than a wash cloth.
Of course, the above list is not comprehensive. Begin your list as early as possible and keep adding to it as you think of additional items you will need. At some point, ask a college student or two to spend a few minutes with your list and make suggestions. And, don't forget to ask mom to make suggestions too.
