In an effort to increase productivity, I have compiled this list for all college students so that they may feel at least somewhat more prepared by having a few simple items on their person.
1. Cell Phone
It's become an essential in the past decade. So much so that there is a 100% chance you've had a mini heart attack if you couldn't find it right away. Even if it wasn't on this list, you wouldn't dare leave without it.
2. Charger
We've all been there: scrambling to find someone with a charger at the last-minute when your phone's battery bar is red. Don't be caught in that situation again and, instead, come prepared!
3. Hand Sanitizer
It doesn't matter where you go to school: college campuses are full of germs. Every doorknob you've turned and every desk you've laid you head on has had 5,000 or more other people doing the same thing. If that doesn't make you want to bathe in hand sanitizer, I don't know what will.
4. Earbuds
Another essential that most people make sure to grab before they walk out the door. Whether you're using them discreetly in a lecture or on your speed walk between classes, earbuds are a great way to avoid conversation with those around you!
5. Feminine Hygiene Products
Specifically chosen for the female readers, carrying pads or tampons is something that should become a habit. Whether it's your "time of the month" or not, you could be an emergency resource for a girl whose 'friend' decided to make a surprise appearance a week early. Girl code, ladies.
6. Snacks
We all get hungry and we all tell ourselves to resist that overpriced bag of chips or pastry in the student union. Be tempted no more! Packing your own snacks is efficient and can serve as an energy booster without the pit stop.
7. Water
Or even just a water bottle, really. Having something to drink in the middle of a lecture can be the difference between taking a snooze and at least looking like you're paying attention.
8. Wallet
It's always a smart idea to bring your wallet wherever you go. That way, if you happen to go off-campus suddenly, you're prepared to pay for your own meal or pitch in for an uber without mooching off other people.
9. ID Card/Room Key
I cannot impress upon you how important this is. Speaking from experience it is a pain in the butt to have to call your roommate because you left your key in the room and can't get in. Something like a phone wallet is an easy way to make sure you never leave without it.
10. Gum
Wake up late for an 8AM and don't have time to do anything but run out the door? Pop a gum. Run into the guy from Literature in the dining hall right after you finished eating General Tso's chicken? Pop a gum. Come back to the dorm after a party with a bad case of beer breath? Pop a gum. You're welcome.
11. Ibuprofen
This is especially important if you know you won't be seeing your dorm room until later due to your busy schedule. Having pain-killers on hand is also a good way to ditch that migraine that developed during the random flash mob on your way to Calculus. *Depending on your school's policy regarding carrying medication
12. Tissues
Even if you aren't sick, someone else might be. And instead of hearing them suck in their snot every two seconds during class, you can help them (and the ears of everyone in the room) out by passing them a tissue to blow their nose with, in the hallway.
13. Writing Utensil
Even if it's the week, it's never a bad idea to have a pen or pencil on hand. You might have to write something down or sign a petition. It could even be used as a defense mechanism if (Heaven forbid) a situation arises.
