As a returning sophomore, this "college" thing is no biggie. A piece of cake if you ask me! Reflecting on the past year, I've compiled a helpful list of often forgotten things to bring to college. Don't be like everyone else and accidentally leave these things at home!!
1. A shirt
Now, you're going to want to bring a shirt to college. Some days it's going to be cold so you're going to protection form the elements. Public nudity is also something to think about. I've noticed that I've really thrived in my college career because I thought to pack a shirt. No need for excess though, one is plenty. This is definitely a must-have if you want to make some friends at college!
2. Walking stick
Walking to class in the elements is an experience, so you're going to want to bring your best walking stick! Everyone has one, so don't be embarrassed if you have one that's a little flashy, the professors will love it!
3. A backpack
I've recently come across this revolutionary invention called a "backpack". I know, I know, you're probably thinking I'm crazy by telling you there's something out there that carries all your books, laptop, pencils, etc. with the ease of being hands free since it sits on your back. So, to be cool, you're going to want to get one of these backpacks, not only to be popular but for functionality as well.
4. A phone
At college, you're going to want to have communication with others, most likely friends and family. You'll most likely have to coordinate "hang out" times and locations with fellow college mates, which means having a cellular phone is best, preferably with texting abilities. You will quickly learn that this is a luxury but a necessary luxury in order to schedule your group study sessions for chemistry. Go ahead, splurge a little and buy yourself a cell phone! ;)
5. A writing utensil
I've found it useful to have something to write with when taking a test and/or taking notes in class. Contrary to popular belief, these aren't becoming extinct quite yet, so you'll want to pack one of these for sure!
6. Extra pair of shoes
No need to be like the guy shown above. Having an extra pair of shoes gives you so much freedom in college. You are able to switch out your shoes every other day, so you have double the amount of options for footwear! Incredible!
7. One memento/personal keepsake
From what I have observed from others and from personal experience, it's usually nice to have one picture of your family or some sort of personal memento that reminds you of your loved ones at home. This should not, however, be hung up on your wall or in the line of vision of others. Just crumple it up and shove it in your underwear drawer. The college experience can be trying, so it's nice to have one picture in your drawer to turn to in times of sadness and homesickness.
8. A hair tie
Ladies, please do not forget one of these!!!! Obviously, you won't need four different colors, one should suffice for the year. It's such a shame when girls forget to bring one to college, then they're screwed for the rest of the year! You never know what college will throw at you!
9. A snack
Not for your dorm room, of course, but sometimes the car ride to drop your stuff off at school may require you to become hungry. It's going to be a good idea to snack it up for the car ride.
10. Social skills
You should probably brush up on your social skills in order to not be the social outcast of your floor/class/college. And if you can't make friends, hey, we can't win 'em all!
This whole list is pretty imperative but if you are tight on car space or run out of time packing, just pick any one of these items at random and you should be fine.
